Phlebotomy is when someone uses a needle to take blood from a vein. We usually use a vein in your arm. At your visit, it may be a nurse or a doctor that does this. Your blood is then sent to a laboratory to run tests that your doctor/ nurse practitioner has ordered. This can be very helpful in diagnosing medical conditions.  

Preparation

Please drink water and have a snack before your appointment. If you are someone who does not do well with needles, please let us know at the beginning of your appointment. You likely will not have to do any other preparation. If your provider wants you to fast beforehand, they will let you know before you come.

What to Expect

We will ask you to sit in a chair or lie down to have your blood drawn. We may tie a band around your upper arm or ask you to make a fist to help your veins pop out a bit more. This makes it easier to insert the needle in the right place. You may feel a pinch or stinging sensation when the needle goes in. The needle is attached to tubing that allows your blood to flow into containers. We usually require a very small amount of blood. We then remove the needle and apply a cotton ball/gauze to the area. We may ask you to hold pressure on the area until the bleeding stops. We will apply a band-aid before you go. 

Results

Your results will be sent to who ever ordered the test (primary care provider or specialist). If the testing was ordering by one of our providers, we aim to relay results to you within the week. If you are curious, you can also create an account through LifeLabs to see your results: https://mycarecompass.lifelabs.com/