Blood tests
A blood test is often done to check your health, or to find out why you're having certain symptoms. It involves having a small amount of your blood taken for testing.
Blood Tests
We have a skilled group of healthcare assistants (HCAs) who will perform blood tests if needed.
Unless your bloods tests are for scheduled, routine medication or condition monitoring we ask that you consult with a clinician before booking in for blood tests.
There are lots of reasons why we need to restrict direct patient requested blood tests - The test you are asking for may not be the best test for the condition of concern. Or you may need other tests to rule out other possibilities.
We offer blood tests through the working week and on Saturday mornings. Please make sure that you've had plenty of water to drink before attending your appointment.
What's involved?
Most patients coming for a blood test have had blood tests done before. If that's the case then they will try and get you in and out in good time.
We understand that if it is the first time having blood taken you may have some questions and you may even feel nervous. Please tell the HCA if this is the case. If you want a better understanding of what's involved in a blood test please take the time to read this information on the NHS website.
What are the risks of a blood test?
Sometimes a bruise develops where the needle was inserted or the puncture site may bleed a little. This is much less likely to happen if you press over the site with cotton wool for several minutes with your arm left straight (not bent).
As with any wound, an infection may develop where the needle was inserted. Rarely, some people feel faint during a blood test. If you know that a blood test makes you fel faint, you should inform the HCA before the sample is taken.