For an 18-month-old toddler, which site is preferred for venipuncture to draw blood for a lead level?

The preferred site for venipuncture to draw blood for a lead level in an 18-month-old toddler is the superficial dorsal hand veins.

In young children, especially toddlers, certain venipuncture sites are more accessible and safer than others due to their anatomical and physiological development. The veins on the dorsum of the hands are often prominent and easier to visualize. Additionally, using these veins minimizes the risk of complications that can arise from accessing deeper veins or larger vessels, especially in a child who may be less tolerant of the procedure.

The median cubital vein, while accessible in adults, tends to be less prominent in toddlers due to their smaller body size and less developed musculature. The femoral vein in the groin is typically avoided in younger patients because it is a deeper vessel, increasing the risk for trauma and complications. The cephalic vein can be difficult to access in infants and toddlers due to its location and size.

By using the superficial dorsal hand veins, healthcare providers can perform the venipuncture with greater ease and safety while ensuring accurate blood sampling for lead level testing in young children.