Blood tests for children

Does my child need to fast

It depends on the test and the child’s age. For a full blood count, allergy tests or thyroid hormones, fasting is usually not necessary; it is required for tests such as glucose, lipid profile, insulin and tolerance tests. Infants are not kept without food for long; usually a gap since the last feed is enough, which we agree when you book. Water can always be given.

When booking, please give us the list of tests; we will then tell you exactly how to prepare your child.

What the blood draw involves

The parent stays with the child the whole time. An infant or small child sits on the parent’s lap, who cuddles them and steadies their arm; an older child sits on their own. The draw itself takes less than a minute. The staff explain to the child what is happening, in simple language and without rushing. Afterwards the child gets a plaster and a moment to rest.

How to talk to your child about the blood test and what to bring is described in the guide A child’s blood test — how to prepare your little one and yourself.

Fees

The collection fee is a single charge and does not depend on the number of tests: PLN 20 for newborns and children up to 8 years of age, and PLN 11 for children from 11 years of age. The collection fee for children aged 9–10 is confirmed when you book. Prices of the individual laboratory tests are listed in the table on the sample collection point page.