Capillariinäyte

Capillariinäyte refers to a sample of blood collected from a capillary, which are the smallest blood vessels in the body. This method of blood collection is commonly known as a finger prick, heel prick, or earlobe puncture. It is a less invasive procedure compared to venous blood draws, which require a needle inserted into a vein.

The primary advantage of a capillariinäyte is its simplicity and suitability for situations where only a small amount of blood is needed. It is frequently used for point-of-care testing, such as glucose monitoring for individuals with diabetes, rapid infectious disease screening, and newborn screening programs. Home testing kits often utilize this method for convenience and ease of use.

Capillary blood is a mixture of blood from arterioles, venules, and interstitial fluid. While it provides a convenient sample, it may not always perfectly reflect the composition of venous blood, particularly for certain laboratory analyses. Factors such as patient hydration, temperature, and the technique of collection can influence the results obtained from a capillariinäyte.

The procedure typically involves cleaning the chosen puncture site, such as a fingertip or the heel of an infant, with an antiseptic. A sterile lancet is then used to make a small puncture. The blood is then collected into a capillary tube, a specialized micro-container, or directly onto a testing strip. After collection, pressure is applied to the site to stop bleeding, and a bandage may be used.