How to Perform a Proper Finger Prick to Collect Dried Blood Spots on a Filter Paper Card

Summary

This video tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to perform a proper finger prick for collecting dried blood spots on a filter paper card. It emphasizes the importance of filling in three key fields: legal name, date of birth, and collection date. The video outlines necessary supplies, including a filter paper card and sterile lancet, and stresses the importance of hand hygiene and correct puncture site selection. Viewers learn how to collect blood drops, prepare the sample for mailing, and ensure safe disposal of used equipment. For any questions, viewers are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.

Takeaways

• 📝 Complete all three fields on the filter paper card: full legal name, date of birth, and date of blood collection.
• 🧼 Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before starting the process.
• 🔍 Use the sides of the finger for the puncture site to minimize discomfort.
• ✨ Clean the puncture site with an alcohol wipe and let it dry before pricking.
• 🔊 Use a sterile disposable spring-loaded lancet for the finger prick; you will hear a click when it punctures.
• 🚫 Wipe off the first drop of blood with clean gauze before collecting the sample.
• 💧 Apply pressure around the puncture site to form a rounded drop of blood for collection.
• 📬 Place one drop of blood per circle on the filter paper card.
• 🩹 Apply a Band-Aid to the puncture site after collecting the sample.
• 📦 Allow the filter paper to air dry for at least 3 hours before mailing it in a pre-labeled and stamped envelope.

Q & A

What are the three fields that need to be completed on the filter paper card?

The three fields are the full legal name, date of birth, and the date the blood was collected.

What supplies are needed to perform the finger prick procedure?

You will need a filter paper card, alcohol wipes, a clean lancet, a Band-Aid, and an addressed and stamped envelope.

What is the first step before performing the finger prick?

The first step is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Where is it advised to perform the finger prick on the hand?

It is advised to use the sides of the finger for the finger prick.

What should you do after puncturing the skin with the lancet?

After puncturing the skin, wipe off the first drop of blood with a clean gauze and then apply pressure to form a rounded drop of blood.

How should the blood be applied to the filter paper?

You should place one drop of blood per circle on the filter paper.

What should be done after collecting the blood spots?

You should apply a Band-Aid to the puncture site and allow the filter paper to air dry in a cool area for at least 3 hours.

What is the proper way to dispose of the lancet after use?

The lancet should be disposed of in a designated sharps container.

What should you do with the dry filter paper after it has dried?

Place the dry filter paper in a pre-labeled and stamped envelope and mail it out as soon as possible.

Who should you contact if you have questions about the procedure?

You should contact your healthcare provider or reach out at M ntp.org.