About Our Service
Our specialist Phlebotomists are highly skilled in the art of taking blood samples in a quick, professional and comfortable manner. We understand that some patients may be nervous of needles and will do our best to reassure you and make you feel at ease.
Blood samples taken are sent to our internal laboratory for processing as soon as they are taken. Some samples may have to be sent to an external laboratory depending on the tests required.
When you have finished having your specimen taken, your Phlebotomist will put a small plaster on the area that you should leave in place for 24 hours.
Results will be sent to the requesting Clinician, who will in turn inform you of these results.
Results and Turnaround Times
As our laboratory is fully computerised, your blood test results will be available in real-time to all areas of the hospital. The majority of routine Haematology and Biochemistry results should be available within 4 hours. Blood Transfusion results should be available within 6 hours.
Some blood tests take longer to process as the analysis is a bit more complicated.
Microbiology results typically take between 2 to 5 days. This is due to the time it takes to grow the organisms.
Histopathology results take a bit longer due to the preparation process needed for the tissue sample (10-20 working days). If further specialised testing is needed, results may take longer. Where this is the case, an interim report will be issued.
Additional Information
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The proper management of data and information in the Pathology Laboratory is essential for the provision of the service. The Pathology Laboratory adheres
to Patient Confidentiality, General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679 and Data Protection Act 2018. The Coombe Hospital’s privacy statement is available at https://www.coombe.ie/privacy-statement
The Pathology Laboratory retains the following information in relation to each test request received, for defined minimum retention periods, based on regulatory and best practices guidelines.
This information may include some or all of the following:
- Patient full name.
- Patient Hospital record number.
- Patient Date of Birth.
- Date/time of collection, date/time of receipt in the laboratory and date/time of report for each specimen.
- Clinical information provided by requesting clinician.
- The test result and interpretation of test requested, where appropriate.
- Requesting clinician and address.
- Request procedures.
So you are to have a blood test?
In this document we share the process of taking bloods.
Preparation
• Some tests require you to fast. Your Doctor/Midwife/Nurse will advise you of this
• Your Doctor/Midwife/Nurse will advise if you are to withhold medication prior to test.
• Sips of water may be allowed.
• Fasting includes no gum, tea or coffee etc.
Department of Pathology Users Handbook
This Pathology User Handbook or Primary Sample collection manual is designed to provide information for patients and users of the services of the Pathology Department which includes Point of Care testing (POCT), Phlebotomy and Mortuary Services.
Pathology Support Services
Biochemistry Department
Our Biochemistry Department focuses primarily on the measurement of chemical constituents or physiologic processes in the body and these are used to assist in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and prevention of disease. Testing is performed in a range of body fluids such as whole blood, plasma, serum, urine and cerebrospinal fluid. The results of clinical biochemistry tests are compared to reference intervals or a medical decision level to provide diagnostic and clinical meaning for the values.
Microbiology Department
Our Microbiology Department identifies the organisms in your body which are causing your infection. These organisms can be bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. Once the lab identifies the organism, you doctor can then determine the best treatment or antibiotic to destroy this harmful organism.
Prompt testing and analysis for serious clinical disease is a priority of microbiology. Samples for suspected cases of sepsis, meningitis and other time sensitive diseases are processed urgently.
Haematology Department
Our Haematology Department studies blood and blood-related disorders. One of the most common Haematology tests is the Full Blood Count (FBC). This test can detect disorders such as anaemia, which is very common in pregnancy and every woman booking with the Coombe will have at least one FBC during pregnancy. Coagulation tests are also performed in some situations and these detect disorders of the clotting system. Other routine tests include the Kleihauer test to look for baby’s red blood cells in the mother’s circulation, reticulocytes (newly-produced red blood cells) and screening for malaria.
Histopathology Department
Our Histopathology Service offers meticulous tissue analysis for accurately diagnosing diseases. With skilled scientists and histopathologists, comprehensive histopathological evaluations, including Special stains and Immunohistochemistry is performed. We ensure precise results that guide treatment decisions, improve patient outcomes and adhere to the highest standards of care and excellence.
Choose The Right Care For You
Our clinics offer tailored care for every stage of a woman’s life, from family planning and maternity to menopause and beyond. Whether you choose Public, Semi-Private, or Private services, we are here to provide expert, compassionate care that supports your health and well-being every step of the way.
Public Clinic
If you are living and working in Ireland and have the PRSI contributions or you have a medical card you can access free maternity and newborn care.
Semi Private Clinic
The semi-private clinic is a fee based option. Most women who choose this clinic use private health insurance to cover costs. .
Private Clinic
There are a number of consultant obstetricians offering services through our private clinic. Antenatal care fees vary between consultants..
Patient Experience
Every patient’s path to diagnosis and treatment is individual. No matter your specific journey, we believe in empowering you to take an active role in your healthcare.
Departments & Services
Help & Support
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Appointments:
All appointments can be directed through Hospital reception: 01 408 5200, 24 hours a day -
Health Insurance:
We operate a direct payment scheme with VHI, Laya Healthcare, Irish Life Health, Garda Medical Aid, ESB, Medical Provident Fund, and Prison Officers Medical Aid. If you are covered by any of these insurers, the relevant insurance forms are signed electronically on your admission to hospital.
Fees:
For more information on Fees - visit our Hospital Charges page -
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The Resource Page:
Browse our collection of patient resources, brochures, and information leaflets—all in one place. Downloadable and easy to access, these documents cover everything from appointments and procedures to maternity, newborn care, and more.
Contact Us
Tel: 01 408 5200
Find Us
The Coombe Hospital
Switchboard:
Location:
Cork St, Dublin, D08 XW7X