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.
You can find out more about blood tests, their purpose and the way they are performed on the NHS Choices website.
How to Arrange Blood Tests (Adults aged 16 and over)
For adults aged 16 and over, to book a blood test appointment, please visit www.wwl.nhs.uk/phlebotomy or contact 0300 555 4567
How to arrange blood tests for children (under the age of 16)
All children must attend one of the services below for blood tests
Wigan
Children’s Community Nursing Team at Claire House – Tel: 01942 481151 (all children under the age of 16)
Lancashire
Children’s Community Nursing Team at Ormskirk Hospital – Tel: 01695 656340 (children under the age of 12 only)
Lancashire
Children’s Community Nursing Team at Hants Lane Clinic – (children aged 12 to 16 only)