Our Phlebotomy team take blood samples from patients which might be obtained from:
- A vein in the arm or hand
- A central venous access device (PICC, implantable port, tunnelled CVC)
The process usually takes up to 10 minutes. The blood can be used for various testing and monitoring.
What we do
Our Phlebotomy team take blood samples from patients.
People with cancer often need regular blood tests to check their health. This is particularly important during cancer treatment.
Blood tests can tell us:
- How many blood cells (red and white) and platelets you have – this is known as a full blood count
- How well certain body organs are managing – for example, the liver and kidneys
- Whether you have any abnormal proteins in your blood (such as paraproteins and tumour markers) or anything else that can be linked to cancer
The results of these tests can tell us:
- If you might have an infection
- If your body should be able to cope with your next cancer treatment
- If important body organs are struggling as a result of your cancer, your treatment or anything else
- If treatment is having the right effect on your blood cells, platelets, any abnormal proteins or anything else that can be linked to cancer
Your clinical team and your appointment letter or text will explain:
- Anything you need to do before your blood test. Sometimes it is important not to eat or drink anything beforehand (known as fasting) – if you need to do this, we will tell you
- What blood tests you are having
- Anything you need to do after your blood test
You might be able to have some of the blood tests you need in your GP practice or somewhere else near where you live.
Some of your blood tests will need to be carried out in one of our locations. Your appointment will usually be for the location nearest to where you live.
Paddington Community Diagnostic Centre
Paddington Community Diagnostic Centre is in Edge Hill in central Liverpool, near the bottom of Edge Lane. It is a lovely modern building run by The Clatterbridge Cancer Centre and many people find it more convenient than a big hospital. It offers the same high-quality care from Clatterbridge staff.
Tell the Reception staff when you arrive for your appointment and they will direct you to the Phlebotomy Room.
Location details for Paddington Community Diagnostic Centre
Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Aintree
This is our radiotherapy centre on the Aintree University Hospital site (previously called Fazakerley Hospital).
Use the self-check-in kiosks or tell the Reception staff when you arrive for your appointment and they will direct you to the Phlebotomy Room.
Location details for Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Aintree
Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool
This is our main hospital in central Liverpool. It is next door to Royal Liverpool University Hospital and the Dental Hospital.
Use the self-check-in kiosks or tell the Reception staff when you arrive for your appointment and they will direct you to the Phlebotomy Room.
Location details for Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Liverpool
Clatterbridge Cancer Centre – Wirral
This is our Wirral cancer centre on the Clatterbridge Health Campus.
Use the self-check-in kiosks or tell the Reception staff when you arrive for your appointment and they will direct you to the Phlebotomy Room.
Our Phlebotomy teams consist of nurses, clinical support workers and administration staff. The team are highly skilled and will ensure your visit is made as comfortable as possible.