Final answer:
Dermal punctures on infants are typically collected from cells from the umbilical cord and from baby teeth. Cord blood is a source of hematopoietic stem cells important for an infant's immunity. The Apgar test assesses newborn health right after birth.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dermal punctures performed on an infant are routinely collected from cells from the umbilical cord and from baby teeth. A dermal puncture, also known as a heel stick, is a method to collect blood from infants because their veins are too small and fragile for traditional venipuncture.
The blood collected from the umbilical cord at birth can be a source of important stem cells, specifically hematopoietic stem cells from red and white blood cells, which are crucial for the development of the infant's immune system.
After the initial cutting of the umbilical cord, leaving behind a stub that dries and falls off to form the navel, cord blood can still be collected for testing or banking of stem cells.
The Apgar test, performed shortly after birth, is an assessment of five critical health indicators in newborns, including skin color and heart rate, to evaluate the newborn's general wellbeing. This test is essential for determining if the infant requires immediate medical attention.
Shortly after birth, healthcare professionals must monitor several aspects of an infant's health, including maintaining homeostasis and ensuring proper fluid intake due to neonatal kidney immaturity.