Commercial laboratory, hospital, doctor's office. Lab technician, nurse, doctor. Risks and precautions Collect sample either before digital rectal examination or at least 48 hours after examination to avoid falsely elevated PSA levels. Handle the sample gently to prevent hemolysis. Roll up sleeve only.
Discomfort disappears when the test is finished.
Equipment used Needles, syringes and collecting tubes. Sterile, disposable equipment prevents contamination or spread of infection. There is no risk of becoming infected with the hepatitis virus, AIDS virus or any other infecting germ. Description of test Technician, doctor or nurse, applies tourniquet or blood pressure cuff to the upper arm if blood is collected from a vein. Skin over the vein to be stuck is cleaned with alcohol or other antiseptic on a piece of cotton.