Technique 1: Skin puncture

Basic procedure (using a lancet device)

Advantages:
This is a simple procedure that is quick and easy and there isn't a great deal of equipment required and it’s cheap! (Accu-chek Safe T Pro Plus - £25 for box of 200)

Disadvantages:
Unless you make multiple puncture wounds it won't get you a great deal of blood.

The risks: Low/Minimal.
You'll be using something sharp so there is always a risk of sharps injury. You will be breaking skin, so there is a low risk of wound infection at the puncture site.

Equipment list

• Lancet device (e.g. Accu-chek Safe T Pro Plus)
• Soap and water
• Cotton wool balls
• Cleaning solution/wipes
• Sharps box
• Non-sterile gloves

Site selection and preparation:

• Clean hands and put on gloves
• Select site for puncture(s) and clean with soap and water or skin prep solution/wipes (avoid alcohol if possible)
• Prepare lancet device as per manufacturers instructions
• Ensure skin is free from wounds, damage or infection

The Procedure (for Safe T Pro Plus):

• Set depth (1 = shallow, 2 = medium, 3 = deep)
• Remove safety sheath from tip
• Press the tip of device firmly against selected site
• Depress firing button and listen for “click”
• Dispose of device directly into a sharps container
• Wait 20-30 seconds for puncture site to open
• Use or collect blood as you desire (repeat puncture procedure with a new device as many times as you feel you need.)

• Clean the puncture site(s) with soap and water or skin prep solution (avoid alcohol as it will act as an anticoagulant and the puncture sites will bleed more.)
• Apply dressings/plasters if required
• Keep the puncture sites clean and dry for 48 hours.

lili (July 2008)