What is a blood test?

A blood test is when a blood sample is taken from you and then tested to check your general health.

A blood sample is a small amount of blood.

People also call the appointment when you have the blood taken 'a blood test.'

It is a good idea to have a blood test once a year as part of your annual health check.

You might need blood tests more often if:

• you are taking medication
• you are not feeling well
• you feel poorly.

Medication means medicines you take like tablets.

A blood sample is usually taken by a nurse from your arm using a needle, but other areas of your body can be used like the back of your hand.

The nurse puts the needle gently into a vein to draw blood. The blood goes into a test tube which gets sent away for testing.

A vein is a like a small tube which carries blood around your body.

Drawing blood is when a small amount of blood is taken from you.

After a few days, if the blood test has shown anything about your general health which needs checking, you will usually be asked to make another appointment to see a nurse or doctor.

For more information about blood tests visit our other Easy Read pages:

• Getting ready for a blood test
• Arriving and waiting for a blood test
• Having a blood test.