NHA Phlebotomy-Technician Exam - Topic 4 Question 10 Discussion

Osteomyelitis is the correct complication associated with dermal puncture, especially when puncture depth or site selection is improper in infants. Osteomyelitis is infection of bone, and it can occur if a lancet penetrates too deeply or if a puncture is performed over an unsafe area where soft tissue is thin and bone is close to the skin. This is why infant heel punctures must be performed only on the medial or lateral plantar surface and never on the posterior curvature or central heel. Osteoarthritis is degenerative joint disease and is not caused by dermal puncture. Osteoporosis is reduced bone density and is unrelated to capillary collection technique. Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor and is not a procedural complication of phlebotomy. Proper dermal puncture requires correct lancet depth, appropriate site selection, aseptic technique, and avoidance of repeated punctures in the same area. NHA CPT content includes dermal puncture procedures, capillary collection, complications, site selection, and patient risk reduction. Reference topics: Routine Blood Collections; dermal puncture; capillary collection; pediatric site safety.

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