The heel prick: how efficient is common practice?

Abstract

The heel prick is a common procedure, mainly carried out by midwives. This paper argues that midwifery practice is often based on tradition and habit rather than evidence. Firstly, the evidence on which midwives choose a site for heel prick is examined, and it is argued that practice is based on old evidence and that more recent research must be built on to ensure the best care for babies. It is argued that preparation of the heel is unnecessary, and that midwives should consider alternatives to squeezing the heel. Finally, it is argued that encouraging women to breastfeed their babies or otherwise maintain skin-to-skin contact throughout the procedure may be the most appropriate form of analgesia.