Final answer:
The most suitable site for collecting a routine CBC from a healthy 10-month-old infant is the heel. This is due to the undeveloped nature of infant veins and the accessibility of capillaries in the heel region.
Step-by-step explanation:
Appropriate Collection Site for CBC in an Infant
For a routine Complete Blood Count (CBC) in a healthy 10-month-old infant, the most suitable collection site is either heel. Unlike adults and older children, where the median cubital vein is commonly used for venipuncture, infants require a different approach. This is because their veins are not as well-developed, and the median cubital vein may not be easily accessible or prominent for venipuncture. Phlebotomists are trained to perform a capillary stick on areas such as the heel of an infant to obtain the necessary blood sample for a CBC.
When collecting blood from an infant, safety and minimizing discomfort are paramount. The heel is a preferred site because it provides a sufficient quantity of blood while offering a relatively safe and accessible location for the procedure. Furthermore, the heel contains a network of capillaries suitable for such a collection in infants. It's important to adhere to proper technique and guidelines to ensure the collection process is both effective and gentle for the infant.