Taking blood from an infant

A newborn's first blood draw is performed in the hospital after birth. It differs from an adult's. A newborn's blood draw is done by a heel prick, not from a vein as in adults. In exceptional cases, for example, when a high bilirubin level is suspected, a newborn's blood draw can be performed differently. The blood is then taken from a peripheral vein. In infants, blood can be drawn from the hand, wrist, or antecubital fossa, and less frequently, from a vein in the scalp.

Screening blood tests for infants in the hospital are mandatory. However, parents have the right to refuse this test. Capillary blood is drawn for the test. It can detect genetic and metabolic disorders. The earlier they are detected, the greater the chances of treatment.

In toddlers with this disorder, an acid-base balance test is performed on breathing or circulation.

Blood draw in an infant - how to prepare

You are about to have your baby's blood drawn. How should you prepare for the test? A blood count in an infant does not require any special procedures. In the case of an anxious baby, it's worth having a conversation. Explain the reason for the test and tell your baby how to behave. Advise them not to look at the procedure and to turn their head during the needle. The sight of blood can increase anxiety. Bring toys for your baby. They will help keep them occupied, reduce stress, and distract them from the procedure.

In young children, blood is usually drawn from the finger; in older children, as in adults, blood is drawn from the crook of the elbow.

After the blood draw, cuddle your baby. Although a complete blood count (CBC) does not require a large amount of blood and the test is safe, it still causes discomfort and mild pain. A bruise and a bump may appear at the puncture site.

Morphology in infants - how to prepare step by step?

• Give milk (30 minutes before the test).
• Put the diaper back on (if it's wet).
• Prepare your health record.
• Warm your hands (if you know you will be drawing blood from the finger).
• Talk to your baby during the procedure (this will calm them down).
• After all, give a hug.

Blood test for an infant - whether on an empty stomach

Does your baby need a blood test? Knowing whether to bring your child to the clinic on an empty stomach depends on their age. Children aged one and older can drink water, but they should not eat anything before the test. Remember to bring a snack in your handbag. After the blood draw, your child may feel weak and dizzy. It is best to schedule the blood draw in the morning. An early appointment will help ensure the required 6-hour interval between meals and the test.

After the examination, please stay at the clinic for a while. Apply pressure to your little one's puncture site. This will prevent bruising after the blood draw.