Phlebotomy Service (Children’s Clinic East)

To book the child’s phlebotomy appointment, please contact us by simply scanning this QR code with your mobile phone

                                                                 

or by using the email address below giving the following details:

• The child's name
• The child's date of birth
• The child's NHS number or hospital Number (if known)
• Details of which clinician requested the blood test
• What day of the week would suit your needs best (Monday-Friday)
• What time of day would suit your needs best AM/PM

Email: nuhnt.qmcpaediatricbloods@nhs.net

 

If you have been given a blood form by your referring clinician please be sure to bring it with you.

This Phlebotomy service is located within Children’s Clinic East at the Queen's Medical Centre, please see below.

Fluids

It is important that your child drinks a lot before they come as this helps with blood flow when the test is being done.

Cream

Your child may have been prescribed Emla cream to be applied before their test. Please ensure they have this applied 1 hour before their appointment. Please apply the cream to the back of both hands and the creases of both elbows where blue veins are prominent and cover with cling film.

— The above pictures are for example only, please see your prescription for dosage instructions. — 

Other things you can do

• Practice distraction techniques
• Practice breathing techniques
• Choose toys and comfort items that your child can bring with them to the appointment
• Ensure the instructions regarding eating and drinking are followed before the appointment

In Children’s Outpatients we offer two ways in which your child’s blood test can be taken. The method in which your child’s blood can be taken is dictated by the amount of blood needed for the sample to be analysed and tests required. The staff obtaining the blood sample will discuss with you which method they need to use to obtain the sample. 

Capillary

• A small single use device called a lancet is used which makes a small scratch on your child’s finger or thumb.
• For children under six months the heel or toe may be used similar to test the performed by the midwife at approximately 2 weeks of age.
• The blood is then gently squeezed from the site and collected in the necessary bottles.
• This method is generally used when a small volume of blood is needed and can not be performed for all blood samples.

Venous 

• The blood sample is obtained using a small butterfly needle which is attached to a syringe; the blood is collected in the syringe and then decanted into the necessary bottles.
• A small strap called a tourniquet is used to identify which vein is potentially the best; the most common sites used are the inside of the elbow and the back of the hand. Sometimes, a UV light device called an Accuvein will be used which is hoovered over the hand or arm to show the veins up to assist the phlebotomists in finding the vein.
• During the procedure, your child will need to stay as still as possible.  Occasionally additional staff will be required to support and steady the site intended to be used.

Within the outpatient department we have a small number of play specialists who are available on request to assist and provide distraction during procedures. The blood staff can call on the play specialists if they feel children will benefit from having play input whilst undergoing a blood test. Please notify staff prior to coming in for the blood test if your child is anxious, had a previous bad experience, or if you feel additional play support is needed.

All results from blood tests will be forwarded to your child’s consultant or requesting doctor.  No blood results will be given from the Outpatient’s blood room.  If you have any questions or are concerned, please contact the secretary of the consultant who is providing your child’s care via the hospital switchboard on 0115 9249924 or your GP Practice.