Blood Tests
A blood test is when a sample of blood is taken for testing in a laboratory. Blood tests have a wide range of uses and are one of the most common types of medical test. For example, a blood test can be used to:
- assess your general state of health
- confirm the presence of a bacterial or viral infection
- see how well certain organs, such as the liver and kidneys, are functioning
A blood test usually involves the phlebotomist taking a blood sample from a blood vessel in your arm. and the usual place for a sample is the inside of the elbow or wrist, where the veins are relatively close to the surface. Blood samples from children are most commonly taken from the back of the hand. The child's hand will be anaesthetised (numbed) with a special cream before the sample is taken.
Children's Bloods.
Community phlebotomists are able to take bloods from children aged 12 and above. Children under the age of 12 should attend the Children’s Hospital for Wales or the Children’s Centre at Llandough Hospital.
Therefore parents are advised to contact UHW on 02921847957 to book a suitable appointment.
The department will be running an appointment service Monday-Thursdays.
Anaesthetic cream can be provided by your GP if required.
Please note families who arrive without an appointment will be redirected back to their local GP.
You can find out more about blood tests, their purpose and the way they are performed on the NHS Choices website.