Blood Tests

A blood test is when a sample of blood is taken for testing in a laboratory. Blood tests have a wide range of uses and are one of the most common types of medical test. For example, a blood test can be used to:

• assess your general state of health
• confirm the presence of a bacterial or viral infection
• see how well certain organs, such as the liver and kidneys, are functioning

We have a phlebotomy service available on a walk-in basis from 9-12 each morning - no appointment is needed; blood tests can be taken up to 2:50 pm but only via a booked nursing appointment once the walk-in service ends at 12:00.

X-Ray

An X-ray is a widely used diagnostic test to examine the inside of the body. X-rays are a very effective way of detecting problems with bones, such as fractures. They can also often identify problems with soft tissue, such as pneumonia or breast cancer.

If you have a X-ray, you will be asked to lie on a table or stand against a surface so that the part of your body being X-rayed is between the X-ray tube and the photographic plate.

An X-ray is usually carried out by a radiographer, a healthcare professional who specialises in using imaging technology, such as X-rays and ultrasound scanners.

You can find out more about x-ray tests, how they are performed, their function and the risks by visiting the NHS Choices website.

X-rays are available at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital between 14:00 and 19:30 without appointment - you must bring the form completed by the doctor - and the practice receives the result within a week .

Scans and more involved x-rays are available by appointment only and these will be notified to you by post directly from the QEH.

The x-ray department is on the ground floor and is accessed from the main entrance.