Question 66

Performing a finger stick on a toddler patient is an appropriate technique for specimen collection.

A finger stick is a suitable method for collecting blood from a toddler, as it minimizes discomfort and is effective for obtaining small blood samples.

A) Performing a heel stick on a 5-year-old patient

Heel sticks are typically used for infants, as their heel pads are more accessible and suitable for blood collection. In a 5-year-old patient, this method is inappropriate due to their increased size and the need for a more robust collection technique.

B) Performing a finger stick on a toddler patient

This technique is appropriate as toddlers, typically aged 1 to 3 years, have enough finger size to allow for a quick and effective blood sample collection. Finger sticks are commonly used on this age group and provide sufficient blood volume with minimal discomfort.

C) Performing a thumb stick on an infant

Thumb sticks are not a standard practice for infants. Typically, heel sticks are preferred for this age group due to their anatomical suitability and the ability to collect samples safely without causing undue stress or harm.

D) Performing a thumb stick on a 5-year-old patient

Using a thumb stick on a 5-year-old is also inappropriate. Similar to heel sticks, this method is not commonly employed for older children due to size and accessibility issues, and it may result in a less effective collection process.

Conclusion

The correct answer is B, as performing a finger stick on a toddler is a recognized and effective method for specimen collection. The other options fail because they employ techniques that are either inappropriate for the patient’s age or not standard practices in medical settings. Thus, option B stands out as the only suitable choice for the scenario presented.