What should be done to improve blood flow before a heelstick on a newborn?

Warming the heel for 5-10 minutes is the most effective method to improve blood flow before performing a heel stick on a newborn. This practice promotes vasodilation, which increases circulation to the area and makes the capillaries more accessible for blood collection. The warmth enhances the overall blood flow, leading to a more successful and less traumatic blood draw for the newborn.

Applying heat directly to the heel for a specific period allows it to reach an optimal temperature, facilitating the collection process. It is important to manage the temperature to avoid overheating, as excessive heat can cause damage to the sensitive skin of the newborn’s heel.

Other methods, while potentially helpful, may not have the same effectiveness or safety profile as warming the heel. Rubbing the heel vigorously could lead to trauma or discomfort for the baby. Using a heating pad may not be practical as it could potentially create hot spots and cause burns if not monitored closely. Wrapping the newborn in a warm blanket can provide systemic warmth, but it may not specifically target the area from which the blood is being drawn, making it not as precise an intervention as direct warming of the heel.