Complete blood count

A test performed from blood.

It involves determination of the number of morphotic elements (erythrocytes, leukocytes and platelets) and measurement of their size and assessment of their structural features.

The test is used in the assessment of:

• anaemia as well as for determining its type,
• thrombocytopaenia (decreased number of blood platelets),
• thrombocytosis (thrombocythaemia),
• thrombocytopathy.

Complete blood count

is a screening method for detecting blood diseases, anaemia and inflammations. It is recommended to receive the screening test every 2-3 years.

Blood test

• This is an invasive test – a blood sample is collected into an EDTA test tube, according to the standard procedure of blood collection. The first step involves disinfecting the skin and placing a tourniquet. Then, pressure is applied at the collection site once the blood sample has been taken.
• The blood collection takes up to several seconds.
• In the case of improper preparation for the blood test, the results obtained may be false.
• Blood should be collected in the morning hours.

Required preparation a few days before the blood test:

• It is forbidden to consume alcohol for 2-3 days before the test.
• Refrain from drinking caffeinated beverages and tea for at least 12 hours before blood collection.
• If possible, avoid stress.

On the day of the test:

• Patients should be on an empty stomach, which means that no meals can be consumed for about 12 hours before the test.
• They are allowed to drink a small amount of water in the morning hours, but not more than a glass. Where possible, the test should be performed before patients take their morning dose of medicines, unless their physician instructs otherwise.
• Before the test, patients should remain at rest for 10 – 15 minutes (in a sitting position).
• Physical exercise, including moderate effort, such as walking or climbing stairs, may alter the values of laboratory tests.

Blood test results

• The results of complete blood count are available within 24 hours.
• It is possible to collect them at the reception desk of a selected centre.
• The results can be accessed online. For this to be possible, it is necessary to collect a password available at the reception desk of a selected centre.