Easy Read: Blood tests

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Your doctor might ask you to get a blood test.
These can find out if there is a health issue they are concerned about like diabetes, low iron levels or low vitamin levels.
You might have your blood test done at a GP practice or at a hospital.
The doctor or nurse doing the blood test will take blood from your arm using a needle with a special bottle to collect the blood sample.
To help with this they put a tight band around your arm so they can find your veins more easily.
Before they put the needle in they will clean your skin with an alcohol wipe.
You might then be asked to make a fist with your hand. This makes your blood flow faster so the blood test will be easier,
The nurse or doctor will put the needle into your arm. This might hurt a little bit and you might get a bruise after.
You do not have to look if you do not want to.
When the blood test is done the needle will be taken out and the band taken off your arm. You will be given some cotton wool to hold onto your arm.
After the blood test is done you can go home.
Your blood test will go to a hospital and the results will be sent to your doctor.