No changes necessary. You may be asked not to give your child this medication before the test. Gauze pad or small adhesive bandage. Tiny, sterile metal lancet to prick heel. 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. Some discoloration, soreness or swelling may develop. This responds well to moist, warm compresses applied every 2 to 4 hours. Return to pretest activities right away.