NHS Blood tests in Reading and the surrounding area can be booked at 2 locations:
Please ensure you have a current blood test request form, if not please contact your hospital consultant or GP and they will post one to you.
Please note, all Blood Tests are by appointment, which can be booked here.
A blood test involves drawing a blood sample for laboratory analysis. These tests are a standard part of healthcare and can serve numerous purposes. They can help evaluate your overall health, confirm if an infection is bacterial or viral, monitor organ function like the liver and kidneys, and even screen for genetic conditions. This service is available at our surgery for patients who are 16 years old and above, and it usually takes just a few minutes.
Before your blood test, the GP or Nurse who requested the test will provide any necessary instructions. Depending on the specific test, you might need to fast (refrain from eating or drinking anything except water), or temporarily stop taking certain medications. For fasting blood tests, we generally recommend not consuming anything except water after 10pm the night before.
The process of obtaining a blood sample is straightforward. The phlebotomist will first verify your personal details, including your name, date of birth, and address. Then, a tight band, or tourniquet, will be placed around your upper arm to slow the blood flow and cause the vein to fill with blood, making it easier to draw a sample. The phlebotomist will select an appropriate vein (usually on the inside of the elbow) and insert the needle. You might feel a slight prick, but it shouldn't be painful. If you're uncomfortable with needles, let the phlebotomist know so they can help ease your anxiety. If you feel faint at any point, inform the phlebotomist immediately.
Once the sample is collected, the needle will be safely discarded. You'll be asked to press a cotton-wool pad against the small puncture site for a few minutes to stop any bleeding and prevent bruising. Afterwards, a small plaster will be applied to keep the area clean and ward off infection.
Test results typically take between 5 to 7 days to come back, although some may take longer. Your GP or Nurse will let you know if a follow-up appointment is necessary when they request the test.
