An apparatus for aiding the collection of a blood sample from a finger 14 has an elastic band 6 configured to be placed over a subjects digit to restrict venous flow and/or capillary blood, but not to restrict arterial blood flow, such that blood flows out of the digit when pricked. The band may be rubber and free from latex, with a diameter of 14-16mm, length of 24-26 mm, width of 0.5-2.5mm and thickness of 0.5-2.5 mm, such as a number 7 elastic band. It may have a square, circular or oval cross-section and it may be coated in talc. The apparatus may include a lancet 4, needle or pin for puncturing the finger and a vial (8, figure 5), funnel or capillary tube for collecting the blood sample (18, figure 5).
