What is a Blood Test?
A blood test is a common medical procedure where a small sample of your blood is taken to be analysed in a laboratory. It helps doctors check for various health conditions, diagnose diseases, monitor your overall health, and evaluate how well certain treatments are working. The blood sample is usually drawn from a vein in your arm using a needle, and the process is quick and typically causes only minor discomfort.
How to Book a Blood Test
Please ensure a blood test request has been authorized by a clinician at the practice before arranging an appointment for the sample to be taken by the healthcare assistant. Without the blood test form, our healthcare assistants will be unable to take the sample, and you will be asked to rebook.
Once the form is authorized, you can book your appointment using the NHS app, by calling us at the surgery on 0208 630 1036 or in person. You can visit the surgery and speak to a receptionist or your GP to receive your results directly.
What Happens During a Blood Test?
A blood test typically involves a phlebotomist drawing a sample from a blood vessel in your arm, usually from the inside of the elbow or wrist where veins are close to the surface. For more information about blood tests, visit the NHS website: NHS Blood Tests.
How Will I Feel After My Blood Test?
Only a small amount of blood is taken during the test, so you shouldn’t experience any major side effects. However, some people may feel dizzy or faint. If this happens, please inform the healthcare assistant or the nurse performing the test so they can assist you. You might also have a small bruise where the needle was inserted, but it should heal quickly.
How Will I Get My Blood Test Results?
Blood test results can take up to a week to be processed. Once available, you can access your results via online services, NHS app, by calling us at the surgery on 0208 630 1036 or in person. You can visit the surgery and speak to a receptionist or your GP to receive your results directly.
. For more information on how to get your results using the NHS app please visit . https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/view-your-test-results/#:~:text=View%20your%20test%20results%20using,registered%20with%20a%20GP%20surgery
Blood Tests for Children (Ages 1-13)
For children, blood samples are most often taken from the back of the hand, and a special cream is applied to numb the area before the sample is collected. The children’s blood tests are taken at Heart of Hounslow.
If your GP has advised a blood test for your child, please use the link below to book an appointment. You will need a blood form (collected at the surgery) and to create a SwiftQueue account before booking. Please have your child’s blood form with you, as you will need their NHS number and details recorded on the form. Book online appointments through the health care platform SwiftQueue here: SwiftQueue Phlebotomy for Children.