Blood Tests

If you have any questions please contact the ward Telephone: 01698 366197 Monday- Friday 8am -12pm

Introduction

It is important that your child is prepared for their blood test as they may have questions, fears and anxieties regarding the procedure. This leaflet will help you explain what will happen during their short visit to the blood clinic. You may like to visit this website which has short films and other information that may help you explain things to your child: www.whatwhychildreninhospital.org.uk Bringing your child for their appointment is giving implied consent to the procedure. If you have any concerns please raise them with the health professional before the procedure has commenced. You play a large part in the procedure as you will be asked to help hold your child, or distract them whilst we obtain the blood sample(s) If you feel unable to participate please inform the health professional. If you do not wish the procedure to continue Dr will be informed why bloods were not able to be taken. We will do our best to obtain all the blood samples required with one venupuncture(jag) but unfortunately this is not alway possible. We will make a second attempt if initially unsuccessful; please tell staff if you do not want them to try a second time. If we are unable to obtain a sample at the second attempt we will discuss alternative options with you.

No child likes to have a blood test therefore clinical holding may be necessary.

Clinical Holding

This is a term used for minimal holding. This is holding for the venepuncture procedure. The holding used should be appropriate to age, cognitive ability and behaviour of the child. If you feel the holding procedure is not appropriate for your child please let the health professional know immediately. You can advise how you feel your child would be better held. This will be accommodated if appropriate and safe.

How is the blood obtained?

• A tourniquet will be applied to the area, or a nurse will squeeze the area above the site that we want to obtain a blood sample from
• The area will be cleaned
• A cold spray (local anaesthetic), will be applied; this numbs area
• A needle called a butterfly will be inserted into a vein and a syringe will be attached
• The amount of blood obtained will depend on tests required
• Once the procedure has ended your child will receive a sticker

Results

Your child’s results will be reviewed by the doctor who ordered the test. If they need to be in touch they will contact you directly, otherwise the results will be sent back to your GP, usually within 14 days.

If you need this information in another language or format, please e-mail:

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