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. Use warm compresses if blood collects under the puncture site or if the area becomes tender, red or painful. Time before results are reported to the doctor or patient varies from a few minutes to a few days.