Which of the following methods can be used for blood specimen collection in infants?

The heel stick method is the most appropriate and commonly used technique for blood specimen collection in infants. This technique is particularly well-suited for neonates and young infants because of their smaller blood volume and the delicate nature of their skin, which makes other methods, like venipuncture, less ideal and more traumatic.

During a heel stick, a small amount of blood is obtained by puncturing the skin on the heel. This minimizes discomfort and the risk of complications, making it safe and effective for collecting blood samples for various tests, such as newborn screening. Additionally, heel sticks require less invasive handling than venipuncture, which involves larger veins and can pose higher risks, such as hematomas or excessive blood loss in the case of an accidental puncture or failure to secure the site properly.

While fingertip punctures may be used for older children and adults, they are not suitable for infants due to their small fingers and limited subcutaneous tissue. Venipuncture, although an effective method for larger blood volumes, is generally avoided in infants unless absolutely necessary and typically requires skilled practitioners. Central line access is reserved for specific medical indications and involves greater risk and complexity, making it inappropriate as a standard method for routine blood collection in infants.