Blood test for children
child blood test · pediatric blood draw · finger prick for kids · kids' blood test
A nurse takes a little blood from your child's fingertip or a vein. It usually takes a couple of minutes.
At a checkup, during illness, before kindergarten or school, before surgery, or to check treatment.
⏱ Duration: usually 3 to 10 minutes; results often come in 1 to 2 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Babies are usually fed as normal. Ask first. Older children are often asked to come fasting. Ask the lab how many hours without food.
- Water. Plain water is usually fine. It helps keep your child calmer.
- Mindset. Tell your child the truth: a quick prick, a little pain, and you will be right there. Do not use the doctor as a threat.
- Bring along. A favorite toy and a treat for afterward.
What to bring
- The test request form
- Your child's documents
- A toy and a snack for afterward
How it goes
- You sit and hold your child on your lap, as the nurse shows you
- The finger or arm is wiped with antiseptic
- From a finger: a quick prick and a few drops into a tube
- From a vein: a band, a quick prick, and blood fills a tube
- A cotton pad is pressed on the spot, and your child is praised
What you'll feel
- A quick prick. Your child may cry, and that is normal
- Your calm helps your child a lot
Afterwards
- Press the cotton pad for a few minutes
- Praise your child right away and give a snack if they were fasting
- Results usually come in 1 to 2 days
Common questions
Why is blood taken from a vein and not a finger?
Many tests need more blood. A vein is faster and more accurate.
How can I calm my child?
Be honest and calm, hold them on your lap, and distract them with a toy or a cartoon.