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Blood Transfusion - Your Questions Answered
Blood Transfusion

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Phlebotomy department (getting Blood taken for tests):

1. How do I prepare in advance of my Blood Tests?

Most tests don't require any advance preparation. The exceptions are:

  • Fasting Bloods - You must fast for 14 hours from the night before.
  • 24hr Urine Collection - Please ensure to follow the instructions given to you about the collection details carefully and remember, any Phlebotomy required during the 24hr collection period must happen within that time otherwise, the 24hr collection may have to be repeated.

2. What do I bring with me?

If your doctor/nurse has given you a note during your last most recent visit, it is essential that you bring this with you to present to the Phlebotomist.

For Day Ward patients, it is essential that you bring your appointment card or other card that verifies your identification details i.e. Name, Hospital Number and Date of Birth.

3. What do I do when I arrive at Phlebotomy?

Take a number and take a seat. Numbers are available in a box beside the Phlebotomy Room door. The Phlebotomist will call you in turn. Should you be called in to see the doctor while waiting for Phlebotomy, keep your number with you for when you return to the Phlebotomy waiting area and you will be called at the next available turn.

4. What exactly will happen when my blood is being taken?

The Phlebotomist puts a tourniquet around your arm just above the elbow and gently inserts a small needle just below the tourniquet. She quickly withdraws just enough blood needed for all tests. Afterward, she places a piece of cotton wool on your arm covering it with a small plaster.

5. Why is my blood put into different bottles?

Some of your tests may require that your blood be preserved in different ways for the best quality results. That's why more than one bottle might be needed.

6. How long will my results take?

Results of tests performed on-site are reported by the laboratory back to the requesting doctor generally within a couple of days with the exception of Tumour Markers which may take up to a week. Any queries you may have regarding your results should be made to your doctor.

Day Ward patients awaiting Chemotherapy and patients on Temodol have their results reported back from the Laboratory to the Ward usually within two hours so that daily Chemotherapy can begin.

7. Who do I contact for further information?

For general enquiries about laboratory tests
Phone:  01 - 4065198 .

For further information about appointments and preparation for Blood Tests
Phone:  01 - 4065114 .