Question 70

Lateral section of the plantar heel

For capillary collection from a 2-month-old infant, the lateral section of the plantar heel is the appropriate site. This area is preferred due to its accessibility and reduced risk of injury to nerves and bones.

A) Lateral section of the plantar heel

This option is correct as the lateral section of the plantar heel is specifically recommended for capillary blood collection in infants. It minimizes the risk of complications and provides sufficient blood flow for testing.

B) Central area of the heel

The central area of the heel is not recommended for capillary collections in infants as it poses a higher risk of injury to the underlying structures, such as nerves and bones, which could lead to complications.

C) Posterior curvature of the heel

The posterior curvature of the heel is not a suitable site for capillary collection as it is prone to damage and does not provide optimal blood flow. This area is also more likely to cause discomfort to the infant during the procedure.

D) Palmer surface of the distal phalanx

The palmer surface of the distal phalanx is not appropriate for capillary blood collection in infants. This site is generally used for adult patients and may not yield sufficient blood volume in infants, making it less effective for testing purposes.

Conclusion

The lateral section of the plantar heel is definitively the best choice for capillary collection in a 2-month-old infant due to its safety and practicality. In contrast, the other options either pose risks of injury or are unsuitable for effective blood collection, thereby failing to meet the requirements for this procedure.