Phlebotomy Education
Common Blood Tests Explained
Understanding what you are collecting makes you a better phlebotomist and a more reassuring one.
27 May 2026 · 6 min read
The core panel
FBC, U&E, LFT, TFT, HbA1c and lipids account for the majority of routine requests in primary care.
Why the tube matters
Additives are not interchangeable: EDTA chelates calcium for haematology, citrate preserves clotting factors, and clot activators serve biochemistry.
Talking to patients
Explaining the purpose of each tube reduces anxiety and improves cooperation — the most underrated clinical skill in phlebotomy.