To help determine an illness or ensure that your health is at its optimum level, Dr. John Abroon may recommend a blood draw. Whether you are a patient at our practice, or if a secondary doctor has recommended a blood draw, you can trust our doctor and team. We make sure that you remain as comfortable as possible during your blood draw, and that only the appropriate amount of blood is taken.
You may need to have your blood drawn for various reasons, including to:
- Evaluate your general health
- Check for infection
- Determine how well certain organs are working, such as the kidneys or liver
- Screen for genetic condition
Preparing for a Blood Draw
In most cases, you will need to avoid eating or drinking anything, except water, for 12 hours before your blood draw. Depending on your situation, our doctor may also recommend that you refrain from taking certain medications until your blood draw has been completed. Our doctor may give you additional instructions prior to your blood draw; please be sure to follow all instructions carefully.
During a Blood Draw
Typically, a blood draw takes only a few minutes. Most samples are taken from a blood vessel in your arm, such as from the inside of the elbow or at the wrist. If a child requires a blood draw, these are most often taken from the back of the hand.
During your procedure, our doctor and team will perform the following steps:
- Tie a tight band around the upper part of your arm; this slows blood flow and causes the vein to swell, making it easier to access.
- Clean the area with an antiseptic wipe.
- Insert a needle into the vein. An attached syringe will be used to draw out the blood sample. Some patients experience a slight pinch or scratching sensation when the needle goes in, but it should not be painful.
- Once the full amount has been taken, the needle will be removed. We will apply pressure to the insert site to stop bleeding.
Some patients experience slight dizziness or faintness during or after having their blood drawn. If you feel this way, tell the person who is performing the blood draw so that they can help you feel more comfortable. You may experience slight bruising at the site for a few days.
If you have any questions about why you may need a blood draw in New York, New York, we invite you to call our office at 212-288-0900 and talk with our team. We are happy to answer any of your questions and provide you with the care you need.
