Which statement about arterialized capillary blood sampling in neonates is true?

Which statement about arterialized capillary blood sampling in neonates is true?

• A. It is obtained from the heel of the neonate using a lancet
• B. It requires arterial catheterization
• C. It yields more accurate PaO2 than venous samples
• D. It should be obtained from the finger

Answer: (A)

Arterialized capillary sampling in neonates is done by warming the heel and then making a small puncture with a lancet to obtain a capillary blood sample. Warming increases capillary blood flow so the oxygen content more closely resembles arterial blood, allowing a usable blood gas estimate without placing an arterial line. The heel is the standard site in newborns because it provides accessible capillaries with minimal risk and discomfort, whereas the finger is not used in such small patients. This approach does not require arterial catheterization. While capillary arterialized samples can approximate arterial values better than venous samples, the key point tested here is the collection method and site.

Arterialized capillary sampling in neonates is done by warming the heel and then making a small puncture with a lancet to obtain a capillary blood sample. Warming increases capillary blood flow so the oxygen content more closely resembles arterial blood, allowing a usable blood gas estimate without placing an arterial line. The heel is the standard site in newborns because it provides accessible capillaries with minimal risk and discomfort, whereas the finger is not used in such small patients. This approach does not require arterial catheterization. While capillary arterialized samples can approximate arterial values better than venous samples, the key point tested here is the collection method and site.