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. 

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.

Further information around Blood Tests can be found here. 


Childrens Blood Tests

Blood samples from children are most commonly taken from the back of the hand. The childs hand will be anaesthetised (numbed) with a special cream before the sample is taken. 

Blood tests for babies and children under 12year old is undertaken at Rainforest Ward, Peterborough City Hospital. Please contact them to arrange your childs blood test. 

Healthcare professionals utilise a number of diagnostic tests to help identify any health concerns.

The diagnostic investigation may take place at a Hospital or Private Clinic and the results are then made available to the requesting clinician.

Please note that it can take upto 5 days following your appointment before the results are available.