Final answer:
When using a lancet for blood collection, the first droplet of blood should be wiped away to avoid contamination. Subsequent droplets are then used for testing, which can include typing tests and other diagnostic procedures, and the sample might be centrifuged to obtain plasma.
Step-by-step explanation:
When performing a fingerstick blood collection using a lancet, the first droplet of blood is typically wiped away before collecting the sample to be tested. This action helps to eliminate any tissue fluid contamination which may interfere with the test results. After discarding the first droplet, a clean, second droplet is then used to place onto the test card or into a collection device. Depending on the specific procedure and test being performed, various steps are then taken. For instance, Holly Ahern mentions placing a drop of the patient sample inside a circle on a test card and adding a reagent. Moreover, in the context of blood typing, a patient's blood may be mixed with antibodies to observe agglutination to determine blood type, which is crucial for transfusions and surgeries. Lastly, blood may be collected in tubes with anticoagulants like lithium heparin and centrifuged to obtain plasma for further analysis.