Guide To Common Blood Tests

Blood tests are performed to measure the levels of certain substances in the blood and detect disease. Usually performed by a nurse or a phlebotomist, the tests involve taking a sample of blood from the patient. The entire procedure takes around three minutes to complete. After cleaning the skin, the technician places a needle into a vein in the patient's arm or hand to withdraw the sample. Certain blood tests can also be completed using a fingerstick method. The sample is analyzed by a laboratory, and the patient is typically informed of the results within a week. Some patients find blood tests cause discomfort, so to make the procedure more comfortable, they may wish to request a prescription for a topical numbing cream that can be applied to the skin a few hours before the test. Using cold spray or vibrating devices might help minimize pain from the procedure too. Blood tests are carried out as part of routine checkups, and patients may also need to have them before undergoing surgery. The tests are an especially important part of the medical treatment provided in emergency settings.