For the PSA blood test, blood is drawn from the vein just as with a blood sugar, cholesterol or any other blood test. After that, the doctor does a digital rectal examination, which involves putting a gloved finger in the rectum and feeling the prostate gland for degree of hardness, for any lumps, and for any abnormalities. Some men dread the thought of the examination, but it’s really not much and it can be a lifesaver.