New York, NY personal injury attorney Robert Vilensky talks about what you should do if you suspect exposure to lead paint. Blood tests are available today to determine lead exposure. When a patient visits a doctor or clinic and suspects lead exposure, they can request a lead test. This is a simple blood test, but it must be specific for lead. Patients should specify that they want the test performed using blood drawn from a vein rather than a finger prick, as the latter method is less accurate. Taking a vial of blood from the arm is the most reliable way to assess lead levels.