Can Gp's take childrens blood?

[Yoshie]

The reason I ask is ds's (5) physio has decided he is to have blood tests and I need to call the GP surgery tomorrow to sort this, however the last time he had blood taken he was 2 and it was done at the hospital through a consultant. I am just hoping that someone has some knowledge that GP's do routinely do these kinds of things and we won't have to wait even longer for answers.

[RightUpMyRue]

GPs are qualified to take blood but it will usually be done by the pratice nurse. Just tell the receptionist, when you call, that you need a blood test for your DS and she will steer you right.

[thisisyesterday]

yes, they can.

[Yoshie]

yay thanks :) that helps (not excited about why he needs the test just that its been 6 months and they are only now looking at other options so getting frustrated)

[DeWe]

I think it depends on the age of your child, and the GP. Ds had bloods in hospital, but he was only 3months at the time (or in A & E). Dd2 had bloods done by the GP age 5yo. The GP did it before surgery started so she didn't have to worry about it.

[Helenaha]

My 3.5 yr old had blood taken by our GP. She was excellent and my DD was very calm under the circumstances. She did give us some gel to put on to numb the area.

[qo]

Yep, my old GP used to do my sons bloods as he needed them regularly and saved us a 60mile round trip. Though he did tell us he was a qualified paediatrician, don't know if that makes a difference?

[GrimmaTheNome]

Yes, but usually best done by the practice nurse - they do it more so tend to be better at it.

[Cheeseandbiscuits]

Depends on the age, some gps will only do older kids - 7or 8 years. It will be practice dependant.