Blood Tests

The phlebotomy service at Birmingham Children's Hospital is based in Main Outpatients and supports outpatient clinics and local GP services with blood tests.  The Phlebotomy Team also provide an inpatient ward service (Monday to Friday).

Having a blood test

When arriving at the Main Outpatient Department, please attend Desk No. 4.  

To help ease the fear of anxious children, it is possible to apply a local anaesthetic (ametop cream) or spray) which is used to numb the skin and reduce pain before procedure.  It does take approximately 30 minutes for the area to become numb when using the cream.  Before the blood test, If you prefer to use the spray, the result is instantaneous ‘freezing’.   The cream can be used for children aged one month and over, and the spray is for children aged five and over.

Please speak to the phlebotomist on arrival to discuss if you require either the cream or spray.

Booking an appointment

Our Phlebotomy Department is by appointment only.
We will always try to aim to see you within 30 minutes of your appointment time, but sometimes there may be delays.  We hope you understand that sometimes our patients need a little more time with us.  If there are delays, our team will inform you at check in.

How it works:

  1. Click on the link below
  2. Select a date and time that suits you
  3. Enter your details as prompted
  4. We’ll send you a confirmation via text message or email
  5. If you need to cancel please contact 0121 333 9304