You may be asked not to give your child this medication before the test. Equipment used Not available. Description of test Skin over heel is cleaned with antiseptic. Operator quickly pierces skin to a shallow depth, using a sterile, disposable metal lancet. The drop or two of blood is dropped on filter paper until paper is saturated.
Paper is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
After the test Immediate post-test care Apply pressure to the puncture site with cotton provided by the laboratory. Some discoloration, soreness or swelling may develop. This responds well to moist, warm compresses applied every 2 to 4 hours. Activity after test Resume giving your baby any medications that were withheld before the test. Return to pretest activities right away.