Blood tests & Venesections during self isolation

[MarkD6701]

All,

I just wondered if anyone had spoken to their consultant or doctor regarding the situation of going to an appointment or needing a blood test if you need to go into self isolation.

Like many, I'm on warfarin so need to have my INR checked on a regular basis. Also, we all need regular blood tests to make sure our blood counts are ok, especially on drugs such as Hydroxycarbamide.

If the situation arises where we need a venesection how can that be done if you have to self isolate?

Mark

[Applesnpears]

Hi Mark

The current advice is that you only need to self isolate if you develop symptoms. The normal isolation period is 7 days so unless you are having very regular blood tests, monthly or more frequently, the chances are that any tests would be outside any isolation period.

If there is a clash you'll need to contact your GP for advice. Unless your condition is unstable I suspect the doctor will suggest you defer any testing or venesections.

It is important that you continue to have regular blood tests but speak to your gp practice about finding the best way to do this safely eg sampling at the gp practice rather than going to a crowded phlebotomy department.

Make sure a friend/ neighbour knows that you have routine testing done and that you may need some assistance if you have to self isolate. Perhaps prepare a note with details of your doctor, medications and routine testing that you can hand over quickly if needed.

[FamilyPV]

My mum was due to see her consultant on Monday. I rang the hospital today as she has been taken unwell and they said the consultant will hopefully adjust her medication without a blood test this time (her HU stopped working and now she is on Anegralide and so far it’s not making her feel better). Half an hour after I called them the admin team called me separately (not realising I had called already) and changed it to a telephone call.

I also work in the NHS and we are in uncharted territory but I think the plan is for them to ring and talk to everyone on a case by case basis for more complex patients who need out patient services.