Related Experiment Videos
Fingerstick felons
A W Perry1, L J Gottlieb, L S Zachary
1Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Chicago, IL 60637.
Abstract:
Blood drawing through the fingerstick technique is growing in popularity. Generally considered harmless, it is widely used both in hospitals and at home for monitoring blood glucose concentrations. We report 2 cases of hand infections requiring surgery that resulted from fingerstick blood glucose concentration determinations in immunosuppressed patients. This potentially serious side effect of using the fingerstick technique may be minimized by drawing the blood from the volar forearm or from other areas of the body.
Insights
Fingerstick blood draws, common for glucose monitoring, can lead to serious hand infections in immunosuppressed patients. Drawing blood from the forearm may reduce this risk.
Area of Science:
- Medical Science
- Infectious Disease
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Fingerstick blood collection is a widely adopted method for blood glucose monitoring in clinical and home settings.
- Despite its common use and perceived safety, potential complications exist, particularly in vulnerable patient populations.