Common reasons for blood test:
To look for blood / biochemical abnormality to aid diagnosis
To check for response of treatment / monitor potential adverse effects
As a routine screen before certain further investigation for safety reasons
How is it done?
Blood tests are often performed in one of the associated private hospitals. To collect blood, a nurse or phlebotomist will put a tight band (a tourniquet) around the upper arm and you will be asked to open and close your fist in order to make the veins in your elbow more prominent. The skin overlying the vein will then be cleaned using antiseptic wipes. A needle will then be inserted into the vein, usually at the front in your elbow region, and blood collection bottles will be attached to the needle one by one to take the required samples. Afterwards, the tourniquet will be released, and the needle withdrawn. A small cotton wool is often pressed on the puncture site for a few minutes to avoid bleeding. If you take blood thinning medication, you may need press for slightly longer.
When and how will the results be known?
Most blood test results will be available within 24-48 hours. Some highly specialist blood / urine / genetic testing will take longer depending on the exact tests requested. We will inform you of any blood test results and explain all their significance as soon as they are available.