Advantages of capillary blood sampling over venous sampling in paediatric patients
- Capillary blood sampling is especially useful in paediatrics. It is less invasive, easier to perform and less distressing for patients and their parents1*
- Venepuncture in children is often difficult and potentially hazardous. Additionally, the larger amount of blood removed may pose a danger to children, especially those who are anaemic1†
- Puncturing deep veins in children may cause painful haematoma, haemorrhage, venous thrombosis, infection, damage to surrounding tissues and other complications1


EXPERT TIP
Babies under six months old, weighting less than 10kg or not yet walking should be sampled on the heel<sup>2</sup>
These materials have been produced in consultation with key opinion leaders and follow global guidelines, but the user should use his or her professional judgement when using any technique or method described in these materials and should take into account all applicable national, regional and institutional guidelines and regulations.
1. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) document GP42-A6 (former H04-A6): Procedures and Devices for the Collection of Diagnostic Capillary Blood Specimens; Approved Standard – Sixth Edition. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute; Wayne, Pennsylvania, USA: 2008.
2. WHO guidelines on drawing blood: best practices in phlebotomy. World Health Organisation; 2010. * Except in situations where venous sampling is specifically indicated (e.g. arterial blood gases or tests requiring larger amounts of blood). † In premature infants a 10ml sample represents a high proportion of total blood volume and may cause anaemia1.
How to minimise stress for children during capillary blood sampling
- Greet and identify the patient according to patient safety standards, which requires asking the child or parent/guardian (depending on the child’s age) a minimum of two unique questions (e.g. name, date of birth and/or address)
- Prepare the child and parent/guardian by explaining the procedure in simple terms
- Identify the finger to be sampled and explain it will first need cleaning
- Show the child the device and explain that they will feel the device being gently pushed onto their finger
- Explain they will hear a soft clicking sound and that their finger may sting a little bit as a small drop of blood appears
- Describe that their finger may be squeezed gently to collect blood in a tube for testing and emphasise it is best to hold still throughout the procedure
- While performing the procedure use positive reinforcement with words and/or distractions (e.g. ask them their favourite colour) to shift the child’s focus and make the situation less stressful
- Keep talking during the procedure while reassuring the child with updates as to when it will be finished
- As they leave thank the child and encourage them with praise or a handshake1


EXPERT TIP
Be sure to provide a safe and calming environment to help minimise stress for children during sampling
These materials have been produced in consultation with key opinion leaders and follow global guidelines, but the user should use his or her professional judgement when using any technique or method described in these materials and should take into account all applicable national, regional and institutional guidelines and regulations.