Microsampling for blood-lead analysis.

We detail the technique, procedure, and equipment required to properly obtain a micro-scale capillary (fingerstick) blood specimen for subsequent determination of its lead content. We divide the microsampling procedure into preparation of sampling equipment and subject, the fingerstick, micro blood collection devices, and transport and storage. The concept of a total-system approach to qualitycontrol for sampling and analysis is presented. For realistic quality control, the sampling component and the analysis component are inseparable. We describe types and sources of errors encountered. Most of the variability in the total system is associated with sampling.