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Adult & pediatric sampling essentials
Choosing a site on the finger
- Whenever possible, use either the middle or ring finger1,2. †
- The recommended spot is the side of the fingertip1,2.
- Puncture across the fingerprint lines, not along them1,2. §
EXPERT TIP:The finger is the preferred site for adults and children over 6 months old1*.
These materials have been created in collaboration with leading experts and are based on global guidelines. Still, users should use their own professional judgement when applying any methods described and always consider all applicable national, regional, and institutional regulations and guidelines.
References
1. WHO guidelines on drawing blood: best practices in phlebotomy. World Health Organisation; 2010.
2. 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.
† Do not use the thumb or index finger due to calluses; avoid the little finger because its tissue is thinner2.
§ Puncturing parallel to the fingerprint’s lines can cause blood to run along those grooves instead of pooling as a drop2.
* Weighs more than 10kg1.