Which area is considered safe for performing infant heel puncture?

In the context of performing infant heel punctures, the medial plantar surface is preferred due to several anatomical and safety considerations. This area is located on the inner side of the heel and is considered safe for capillary blood collection in infants. It provides a sufficient vascular network for obtaining blood while minimizing the risk of injury to bones, nerves, and tendons, which are more concentrated in other areas of the foot.

The lateral plantar surface is also a potential site for heel punctures but is less commonly chosen compared to the medial plantar surface, primarily due to similar reasons concerning safety and ease of access to the blood vessels. The center of the foot is typically avoided as it can pose a higher risk of injury to the underlying structures, such as the bones in the heel. The heel pad is not specified as a safe area for puncture, as it does not provide the ideal anatomical positioning for accessing capillary blood while ensuring the baby’s safety.

Choosing the medial plantar surface aligns with established guidelines for infant heel punctures, ensuring that the procedure is both effective and safe for the neonate.