A blood smear is a blood test that gives information about the
number and shape of blood cells. How the Test is Performed Blood
is typically drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the
elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-
killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an
elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area
and make the vein swell with blood. Next, the health care
provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood
collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle.
The elastic band is removed from your arm. Once the blood has
been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is
covered to stop any bleeding. In infants or young children, a
sharp tool called a lancet may be used to puncture the skin and
make it bleed. The blood collects into a small glass tube called
a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be
placed over the area if there is any bleeding. The blood sample
is sent to a lab, where