A nurse is preparing to collect a blood specimen from a newborn via a heel stick. Identify the sequence of steps the nurse should follow. (Move the steps into the box on the right, placing them in the order of performance. Use all the steps.)

A) Incorrect- A reddened area on the calf might indicate a potential blood clot (deep vein thrombosis), which is important to assess but may not be the highest priority.
B) Incorrect- Painful uterine contractions during breastfeeding can be a normal response due to oxytocin release during breastfeeding and might not require immediate reporting.
C) Correct - A urinary output of 125 mL in 4 hours is significantly low and could indicate inadequate fluid intake, potential urinary retention, or other issues that need prompt attention. It is a sign of impaired renal function. This could indicate dehydration, blood loss, infection, or kidney injury. The nurse should assess the client's fluid intake and output, vital signs, urine specific gravity, and serum electrolyte levels. The nurse should also monitor the client for signs of hypovolemia, such as tachycardia, hypotension, and decreased skin turgor.
D) Incorrect- Changing a perineal pad every 2 hours is within the normal range for postpartum bleeding and might not require immediate reporting.

Proper procedure for a heel stick includes:

A) Confirming the newborn's identity before any procedure. the nurse should confirm the newborn's identity by checking the identification band and asking the mother or caregiver to verify the name and date of birth.
E) The nurse should warm the newborn's heel by placing a warm compress or a heel warmer on the site for 3 to 5 minutes. This will increase blood flow and reduce pain.
B) Cleansing the site with an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection. the nurse should cleanse the site with an antiseptic, such as alcohol or chlorhexidine, and let it air dry. The nurse should avoid using iodine, as it can interfere with some laboratory tests.

C) The nurse should pierce the newborn's heel with a sterile lancet, making sure to avoid the central area of the heel, where there are more nerves and bones. The nurse should use a single-use device that retracts automatically after use to prevent needlestick injuries.
D) The nurse should apply gentle pressure to the site with dry gauze to facilitate blood flow and collect the specimen in the appropriate container. The nurse should avoid squeezing or milking the site, as this can cause hemolysis or tissue damage.
E) The nurse should label the specimen with the newborn's name, date of birth, date and time of collection, and type of test. The nurse should also document the procedure in the newborn's chart, noting any difficulties or complications.