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How your blood test works
How Your Solasta Blood Test Works (Step-by-Step Guide)
Getting a private blood test is simple and straightforward. Here’s exactly what happens from ordering your test to receiving your results when you choose a venous blood draw with Solasta Healthcare.
Advice for Your Venous Blood Draw at Solasta Healthcare
A venous blood draw is a routine test where a small sample of blood is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. It helps your clinician assess your general health and check for a range of conditions. Most appointments are quick and straightforward.
Preparation for your Appointment
Before attending your appointment, please read any instructions provided when your test was booked. Some blood tests require fasting, while others do not.
What you should do:
- Bring a form of identification and any appointment details.
- Drink water beforehand unless you have been told otherwise, as being well hydrated can make veins easier to find.
- Wear loose or short sleeves so your arm can be accessed easily.
- Continue taking your usual medication unless you have been specifically advised not to.
- Let the team know in advance if you have a history of fainting during blood tests, difficult veins, or a latex allergy - Call 028 40 648486
What to expect:
- If fasting is required, you may be asked not to eat or drink anything except water for a set number of hours before the test.
- If no fasting is required, you can usually eat and drink normally.
At the Testing Clinic
When you arrive, our team will guide you through the check-in process and confirm your details.
What you should do:
- Arrive on time for your appointment.
- Inform reception if you feel unwell, anxious, or need assistance.
- Mention any recent illness, pregnancy, or medication changes if relevant.
What to expect:
- You may be asked to confirm your name, date of birth, and the tests requested.
- A trained healthcare professional will invite you into the testing room.
- The procedure usually only takes a few minutes.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will take a small blood sample from a vein, usually from the inside of your elbow or another suitable site.
What you should do:
- Sit comfortably and keep your arm relaxed and still.
- Follow any instructions given, such as making a fist.
- Tell the clinician straight away if you feel dizzy, uncomfortable, or anxious.
What to expect:
- A tourniquet (tight band) may be placed around your upper arm briefly.
- The skin will be cleaned before the needle is inserted.
- You may feel a small sharp scratch or brief sting.
- One or more tubes of blood may be collected depending on the tests requested.
- Once complete, the needle will be removed and pressure applied.
After the Test
Most people can return to normal activities straight away.
What you should do:
- Keep pressure on the site for a few minutes if advised.
- Leave the plaster or dressing in place for at least 15–30 minutes.
- Avoid heavy lifting with that arm for the rest of the day if possible.
- Eat and drink normally afterwards unless told otherwise.
- If you feel light-headed, sit down and let a member of staff know before leaving.
What to expect:
- Mild bruising or tenderness at the site can happen and usually settles quickly.
- Results are normally shared by the clinician or service that requested your test.
- If you experience ongoing bleeding, increasing pain, swelling, or signs of infection, seek medical advice promptly.
Getting your results from Solasta Healthcare
Your health check results are reviewed carefully to ensure you receive clear, professional guidance. Once your blood sample has been received by the local laboratory testing facility, results are usually available within 48 hours.
Laboratory Processing
After your appointment, your sample is sent securely to the local laboratory for testing.
What you should do:
- No further action is usually needed immediately after your blood draw.
- Please ensure your contact details are up to date so we can reach you promptly if needed.
What to expect:
- Your sample will be analysed by the laboratory.
- Most results are available within 48 hours of the laboratory receiving your sample.
- In some cases, certain specialist tests may take longer.
GP Review and Interpretation
All Solasta Healthcare Health Checks include a mandatory GP interpretation of your results.
What you should do:
- Wait for confirmation once your results have been reviewed.
- Make a note of any symptoms, concerns, or questions you would like to discuss.
What to expect:
- A qualified GP will assess your results in the context of your health check.
- Results are interpreted clinically, not just as numbers.
- Any findings that may need follow-up or lifestyle advice will be identified.
Your 15-Minute Results Call
Once your GP review is complete, you will be offered a 15-minute call to discuss your results and next steps.
What you should do:
- Be available at the agreed time for your call.
- Have a pen and paper ready if you would like to note key points.
- Prepare any questions you would like answered.
What to expect:
- Your clinician will explain your results in clear, straightforward language.
- You will have the opportunity to ask questions.
- Personalised advice may be provided on lifestyle, wellbeing, or any recommended next steps.
After Receiving Your Results
Your results discussion is designed to help you understand your health and decide what to do next.
What you should do:
- Follow any advice given during your call.
- Arrange any recommended follow-up appointments or further tests.
- Contact us if you need clarification after your consultation.
What to expect:
- Many results are normal and reassuring.
- If any abnormalities are identified, these will be explained clearly along with appropriate guidance.
- Where needed, you may be advised to consult your NHS GP or another healthcare professional for ongoing care.
Health Checks FAQ Resource Centre
Check out more information on the Solasta Health Checks
Comprehensive Testing
Our health checks include extensive blood panels tailored to men’s and women’s health, assessing key markers.
GP-Led Interpretation
Your results are reviewed by an experienced GP, not software, translating complex data into meaningful insights you can understand.
Continuity of Expert Care
Solasta Healthcare provides true continuity, offering ongoing GP-led care, follow-up, and personalised support over time.
Personalised Experience
From booking to follow-up, your experience is designed to be seamless, discreet, clinically robust, and truly patient-centred