Laboratory Medicine

Test Directory / Blood film

Blood film

EDTA

Test	Blood film
Common Abbreviations	FILM
Profile	FBC added on the same sample
Clinical Indication	Examination of a fixed and stained blood film can be an essential part of a Haematological investigation. A blood film will be assessed by the laboratory on request, or if results or clinical details warrant further investigation.
Specimen Type	Blood
Sample Type	EDTA
Minimum Volume	1 x 3 mL (adult) 1 x 0.5 mL (paed) (can be shared with a FBC sample)
Special Precautions
Stability	4-6 hours
Turnaround Time	2 hours (urgent) 3 days (routine)
Laboratory	York & Scarborough Hospital
Reference Interval	N/A
Limitations	Aged samples will be unsuitable for film examination due to cellular degeneration caused by EDTA.
Additional Information

Update for visitors

Visiting restrictions are in place at our hospitals to stop the spread of norovirus. These restrictions will be in place until further notice.

The following wards are closed to visitors:

York Hospital: Ward 29 and Ward 37.

There are four exceptions only to the restrictions. These are:

For patients who are receiving end of life care

Paediatric patients (babies and children)

Maternity care

The family carers of those with dementia

We understand these restrictions can be difficult when a loved one is unwell. The restrictions will be reviewed daily and lifted as soon as it is safe. Thank you for your understanding as we try to reduce the spread of norovirus in our hospitals.