Warming heals for blood sampling

[Ibrahim]

Happy new year 2012 for all of you and your beloved ones.

I know that this could be controversial, sometimes we would have bad blood gases results (or other labs) that will get back within normal limits if we control the same test after warming the baby's heal.

I wonder if some of you warm the baby's heal before capillary sampling? if yes, what is the most practical and safe method you would use for that? Any available litterature on this subject?

Ibrahim Mohamed, Neonatologist

CHU Sainte Justine, University of Montreal

Montreal, Canada

[Guest cocoguawa]

Hi.

In my NICU we use a vinil or latex glove filled with warm water. After after administration of sucrose and put the pacifier, while it takes effect, we apply the glove over the heal giving it some touchs.

Miguel G

NICU nurse

[JACK]

Hi.

In my NICU we use a vinil or latex glove filled with warm water. After after administration of sucrose and put the pacifier, while it takes effect, we apply the glove over the heal giving it some touchs.

Miguel G

NICU nurse

How do you ensure that iatrogenic burns are avoided ?

Any specific temperature for the water ?

How long will you keep the 'warm water filled glove' in contact with skin?

Have you had any cases of iatrogenic burns ?

[Guest cocoguawa]

We fill the glove with warm water (the same temperature like a bath)

We dont keep the glove over the baby, we just apply it giving some touches, the glove never let the nurse hand. I dont have notice of iatrogenic burns...

[Ibrahim]

Thank you both for advancing this discussion.

Ibrahim

How do you ensure that iatrogenic burns are avoided ?

Any specific temperature for the water ?

How long will you keep the 'warm water filled glove' in contact with skin?

Have you had any cases of iatrogenic burns ?