When collecting a blood sample from a geriatric patient, it is important to recognize that the veins are more likely to collapse or roll because the tissue and veins are less elastic and the veins are less secured. Older adults often have skin that is thinner and more friable, with less underlying subcutaneous fat, than that of younger people. Although this may make vessels easier to visualize, they may be more difficult to access. Blood flow may be slower because of the narrowing of vessels that occurs with age.

When using a portable heat block to maintain a blood specimen at body temperature, the phlebotomist should expect the heat block to hold the temperature for approximately 15 minutes. Typically, the specimen tube should also be prewarmed to body temperature or 37 'C (98.6 The specimen should be transported to the lab as soon as possible and transferred to a heating device that will maintain the appropriate temperature.

When a fasting urine test is ordered for glucose testing, the second urine specimen voided after a specified period of fasting usually 8 hours, should be collected. The first specimen, which is affected by food eaten before the fasting period, is discarded. If a first-voiding specimen is ordered, it is usually collected first thing in the morning after approximately 8 hours of sleep. First-voiding specimens are usually more concentrated than subsequent voids. Random urine specimens may be obtained at any time.

Anemia is a condition indicated by a deficiency of red blood cells and hemoglobin in the blood. Leukemia is a type of cancer characterized by an increase in the number of white blood cells. Thrombocytopenia is marked by a decrease in the number of platelets. Polycythemia is a type of cancer that results in an excessive number of red blood cells.

Sputum specimens should ideally be obtained first thing in the morning upon arising because patients tend to cough up secretions that have pooled during the night, so it is easier to get a large volume of sputum. Sputum should be obtained at least 1 hour after eating so it is not contaminated with food particles or vomitus. Before obtaining the specimen, the patient should be asked to remove dentures and to thoroughly rinse the mouth with water and gargle to reduce contaminants.