Procedure for Requesting Additional Blood Sciences Tests
(Biochemistry, Haematology and Immunology)
We are aware that on occasion it is necessary to request additional tests for a sample already in the laboratory.
Method of requesting
Requests may be received via either ICE mail or by telephone.
ICE mail add-ons are actioned 24hrs per day. For urgent requests contact the laboratory directly, for all other requests please use ICE mail.
Lab contact details
- External call 0117 414 8383, select option 2
- Internal call ext. 48383, select option 2
- External call to Switchboard 0117 9505050
- Biochemistry (Bleeps. 9436 or 9437)
- Haematology (Bleeps. 9433).
Biochemistry and Haematology Lab Routine Opening Hours
- Weekdays, weekends and Bank Holidays 08:00 - 21:30
Out of hours
- Weekdays, weekends and Bank Holidays 21:30 - 08:00
Immunology laboratory
- Weekdays 08:00 - 16:00
We will accommodate additional requests where possible, provided that:
- The appropriate specimen type with sufficient sample remaining is available for the requested test.
- The test does not require special specimen handling.
To request an additional test, please provide following information
- Sample Number (available on ICE, instructions here-
Finding the Sample Number.pdf330.21 KB
- Name of patient
- Tests to be added
- Name and phone number of requester
If the add-on test is urgent, ensure this is communicated to the lab when requesting the add-on. Please follow the guides below.
ICE Mail add-on user guide.pdf374.93 KB
ICE MAIL ADD ONs v9.pdf736.37 KB
Guidelines for Additional Requests
| Unstable! – add-ons are NOT appropriate | Within 12 hours of venepuncture | Within 24 hours of venepuncture | Within 48 hours of venepuncture | Up to three days after venepuncture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) | Blood films | Haematology tests –FBC and RET. | Haematology tests – PV, GF and G6PD. | BNP |
| Ammonia | Procalcitonin | Coagulation - DIM, INR, CSC. | Digoxin | Bone, Mg |
| Bicarbonate | CSF Lactate | Folate | Cortisol, hCG, | |
| Lactate (unless fluoride tube) | Conjugated/Direct Bilirubin | Vitamin B12 | HbA1c | |
| CH50/AP50 | Troponin I | LDH, Lipids, Oestradiol, | ||
| C1 Esterase Inhibtor | Non-antenatal Haemoglobinopathy Screens | |||
| Mesothelin | Paracetamol Phenytoin, SHBG | |||
| Any Chemistry test that needs to be referred frozen | U&E, LFTs |
After 3 days, samples are likely to have been discarded.
Please note that requesting an additional test is not appropriate for Antimicrobial or Microbiology assays.