PATIENT INFORMATION
Why do I need a blood count?
A complete blood count can show anaemia, platelet abnormalities and changes in white blood cells. Anaemia matters because surgery may involve blood loss and because severe or clinically important anaemia can affect how oxygen is carried around the body.
Whether you need a blood count depends on the operation, your health and local practice. If anaemia is found, the team may look for the cause and decide whether it should be treated before elective surgery.
An abnormal result needs interpretation in your clinical context. Do not decide whether surgery is safe, or change treatment, solely from information on this website.