Patient Preparation and Consent

The laboratory obtains the informed consent of the patient for all procedures carried out on the patient. The laboratory has information available for patients and users that includes an explanation of the clinical procedure to be performed to enable informed consent. The importance of the provision of patient and family information, where relevant (e.g., for interpreting genetic examination results), is explained to the patient and user.

NOTE For most routine laboratory procedures, consent is inferred when the patient willingly submits to the sample collecting procedure, for example, venepuncture. 

Special procedures, including more invasive procedures, or those with an increased risk of complications, may need a more detailed explanation and, in some cases, recorded consent. 

If obtaining consent is not possible in emergency situations, the laboratory may carry out necessary procedures, provided they are in the patient’s best interest.

The Blackrock Clinic adheres to hospital policy for obtaining informed consent. PP/C/HW-2 Policy on Informed Consent. 

Prior to transfusion of blood, it is important that all drawback/risks, benefits, and alternatives associated with transfusion are explained to the patient. The patient is given an opportunity to read the blood information leaflet, sign the last page and ask questions (exception: emergency transfusion). If the patient agrees to have the blood, they give expressed consent. The signed section is retained in the medical record. Emergency transfusions during surgery/ICU are covered by the surgical consent (RF/C/HW-28 Consent by patient - Operation / Procedure Consent Form).

Where a patient presents in outpatients with a pathology request form, consent for phlebotomy is assumed.  Where suitable, phlebotomy staff ask inpatients for permission to proceed. For certain referral tests (such as genetic screening), required consent will be obtained by filling out the relevant test request form signed by the patient. Patients should be aware that where tests are referred important clinical information and family history will be disclosed to relevant healthcare professionals and sample material may be stored for a period of time. Procedures for patient preparation are available through the phlebotomy department.

Information on cost of tests will be provided to the patient prior to phlebotomy for outpatient bloods. The user can also contact the laboratory office to enquire regarding cost of tests. 

Telephone number (01) 2064358/9

Email: pathologyservices@blackrock-clinic.com

          

Genetic request forms are required for all genetic tests/screens. Links to genetic request forms are associated with applicable tests on the Laboratory tests section of this website.

laboratory.blackrock-clinic.ie/LabTest