Blood Sample

Blood Sample

A blood sample is a small quantity of blood obtained from a person or animal for laboratory testing. It is a common procedure in healthcare and is used to diagnose and monitor a wide range of health conditions.

Collection

The collection of a blood sample is typically performed by a phlebotomist, a healthcare professional trained in the procedure. The most common method of blood sample collection is venipuncture, where a needle is inserted into a vein, usually in the arm, to draw blood. Other methods include fingerstick and heel stick procedures, which are often used for infants or when only a small amount of blood is needed.

Testing

Once collected, the blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The type of tests performed on the blood sample will depend on the patient's symptoms and the doctor's suspicions. Common tests include complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry tests, blood enzyme tests, and blood tests to assess heart disease risk.

Risks

While generally safe, blood sample collection can carry some risks. These include bruising, infection, fainting, and hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin).

See Also

• Blood test
• Phlebotomy
• Laboratory