Title: Blood tests  - NHS
Headings: Overview
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Overview
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Blood tests
Blood tests have a wide range of uses and are one of the most common types of medical test.
Preparing for a blood test
What happens during a blood test?
After the test
Blood test results

Content: A tight band (tourniquet) is usually put around your upper arm. This squeezes the arm, temporarily slowing down the flow of blood and causing the vein to swell. This makes it easier for a sample to be taken. Before taking the sample, the doctor or nurse may clean the area of skin with an antiseptic wipe. A needle attached to a syringe or special container is inserted into the vein. The syringe is used to draw out a sample of your blood. You may feel a slight pricking or scratching sensation as the needle goes in, but it shouldn't be painful. If you don't like needles and blood, tell the person who is taking the sample so they can make you more comfortable. When the sample has been taken, the tourniquet will be released, and the needle will be removed. Pressure is applied to the skin for a few minutes using a cotton-wool pad.