Blood test facts for kids
A blood test is a common check-up that doctors use to learn about your body. It's also called bloodwork. To do a blood test, a small sample of your blood is taken. This usually happens from a vein in your arm using a needle, or sometimes from a fingerprick.
Doctors send the blood sample to a special lab. In the lab, scientists look closely at the blood. They can find out many things, like how well your organs are working. They can also check for mineral levels or see if you have certain conditions. Blood tests help doctors understand your health and make sure you get the right care.
Contents
Why Do Doctors Order Blood Tests?
Blood tests are very helpful tools for doctors. They give important clues about what's happening inside your body.
Checking Your General Health
One main reason for a blood test is to check your overall health. Doctors might order a test during a regular check-up. This helps them see if everything is working as it should. It's like a quick health report for your body.
Finding Out What's Wrong
If you're not feeling well, a blood test can help find the problem. For example, it can show if you have an infection. It can also help identify other health issues that might be making you sick.
Monitoring Health Conditions
For people with ongoing health conditions, blood tests are important. They help doctors keep an eye on the condition. This way, doctors can make sure treatments are working. They can also adjust medicines if needed.
How Blood Tests Help with Medicines
Blood tests can show how your body is reacting to certain medicines. This helps doctors give you the correct dose. It makes sure the medicine is helping you feel better.
How Is a Blood Sample Taken?
Getting a blood sample is usually a quick process. A trained healthcare worker, like a nurse, will collect it.
Taking Blood from a Vein
The most common way to get blood is from a vein in your arm.
- First, the nurse will clean a small area of your skin.
- They might tie a special band around your upper arm. This makes your veins easier to see.
- Then, they gently insert a small needle into a vein.
- You might feel a quick pinch or sting.
- The blood flows into a special tube called a Vacutainer.
- Once enough blood is collected, the needle is removed.
- The nurse will put a small bandage on your arm.
Taking Blood from a Fingerprick
Sometimes, only a very small amount of blood is needed. In these cases, a fingerprick might be used.
- The nurse will clean your fingertip.
- They will use a tiny device to make a quick prick.
- A small drop of blood will appear.
- This drop is collected onto a test strip or into a tiny tube.
- This method is often used for quick checks, like blood sugar levels.
What Happens to the Blood Sample?
After your blood is collected, it goes to a special lab. This is where the real analysis happens.
Inside the Medical Laboratory
In the lab, highly trained scientists use special machines. These machines can separate the blood into different parts. They can also count different types of cells.
What Scientists Look For
Scientists look for many things in your blood. They might check:
- Blood cells: They count red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. These cells help carry oxygen, fight infections, and stop bleeding.
- Chemicals: They measure levels of things like sugar, minerals, and proteins. These chemicals show how well your organs are working.
- Other substances: They can also look for signs of infections or other conditions.
The results of these tests are sent back to your doctor. Your doctor will then explain what the results mean for your health.
Images for kids
-
Modern hospital hematology laboratory
-
Vacutainer tubes used in the collection of blood. During venipuncture, pressure differences between the vein and the vacuum in the Vacutainer forces blood into the tube.
See also
In Spanish: Examen de sangre para niños
