When should a heel stick be used for blood collection?

A heel stick is specifically designed for blood collection from infants or neonates due to their smaller size and the delicate nature of their skin. This method allows for blood to be drawn without the need for more invasive techniques such as venipuncture, which can be difficult and painful for very young patients. The heel's anatomy and the ability to access capillary blood make it an ideal site for this type of collection, particularly when only a small volume of blood is needed for tests such as newborn screening.

In contrast, other patient populations, such as adults, elderly individuals, or patients in emergency situations, typically require different methods of blood collection that are more appropriate for their anatomy and clinical needs. For example, venipuncture is generally preferred in these scenarios for its efficiency and suitability for larger volumes of blood. Thus, using a heel stick is critical for safely and effectively collecting blood from infants and neonates.