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Phlebotomy Requirements

See BT labelling criteria.

Sample container

Blood 4.9 ml Blue Top

Preservative

EDTA

Site

Colchester & Ipswich

Notes

Blood test can be taken in the community with the correct blood bottles that are compatible with the analyser (4.9ml Blue EDTA or Paediatric Blue 1.6ml). BT Labelling criteria must be followed. Analysis must take place at the hospital where the procedure will take place - please note NEE locations send all blood samples to Ipswich Hub unless placed in a RED Sample bag therefore where possible encourage the patient to attend Colchester Hospital Phlebotomy unless they are unable to.

Latest news

More news

20/11/2025

Sample Delays – Immunology Referrals Oxford

Please note, there is currently a delay on Immunology samples that are referred to Oxford for testing – please see the Immunology page for further information from Oxford. Please click on the link below for more information: wpe-Aug-2025-update

20/10/2025

Important Update: HLA-B27

HLA-B27 Testing 20th October 2025 Further to communications last month we have continued to experience supply chain issues. We are now changing our methodology to one that requires DNA extraction prior to testing for HLA-B27. Due to this change we will be restricting the tube types that we can receive; any others received are likely to […]