Which method is recommended for puncturing a newborn's heel?

The recommended method for puncturing a newborn's heel is to puncture the outer aspects of the heel. This approach is preferred because the outer aspect provides a more appropriate location that minimizes the risk of damage to nerves, tendons, and blood vessels that are more centrally located in the heel. Additionally, this area will usually yield an adequate amount of blood for necessary testing, such as newborn screening tests.

Puncturing the middle of the heel may place the needle too close to critical structures, increasing the risk of complications. Similarly, puncturing the bottom of the foot can result in injury to deeper tissues and is not standard practice. Lastly, puncturing multiple times is not advisable either; it can cause unnecessary pain to the newborn and complicate their care, as multiple punctures may lead to increased bruising and the potential for infection. Therefore, targeting the outer aspects of the heel allows for safe, effective blood collection while minimizing risks.