Linda,
I was not intending to refer to a specific brand, but couldn't think
of a short way to describe it generically. You are right that they
are not really reliable.  My intent was that since they are usually
fine, doing one would prevent more instances of unneeded bottles
than would be caused by an incorrect low reading since I am thinking
of those nurses who would be giving a supplement anyway without a
reason not to.  These are the "die-hards" that are very resistant to
change.
As for warming the heel, I don't know the physiology of it, but have
seen enough instances where a reading from an unwarmed heel is low,
but it it is repeated right away after warming the heel, the reading
in higher.  Maybe it relates to the fact that the blood flows more
freely and it isn't necessary to "milk" the heel to get enough as is
often the case with an unwarmed heel.
Giving a supplement for a reading of 50-60 "in case" is really
absurd and contrary to every guideline I have seen.  A reading of
50-60 is fine.  If there is reason to think it might go down later,
then recheck it later!  Following that logic (or lack thereof) we
should give Tylenol every time a temperature reaches 99.0 F "in case
it goes higher".
Winnie - sick of having to "play games", but sometimes it's less
hassle at the moment.

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