Hemoglobin Test

Hemoglobin which is also written as HB or HGB is a protein molecule present in red blood cells that takes oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and returns carbon dioxide from the tissues back to the lungs. Hemoglobin consists of four protein molecules (globulin chains) that are linked together. The normal adult hemoglobin molecule has two alpha-globulin chains and two beta-globulin chains. In fetuses and infants, beta chains are not frequent and the hemoglobin molecule is made up of two alpha chains and two gamma chains. As the infant grows, the gamma chains are steadily substituted by beta chains resulting in the adult hemoglobin structure.

To get the Hemoglobin checked, you do not require any kind of preparations. Your blood sample will be taken and the test for the will be conducted in an equipment. If the same blood is going to be used to check other blood counts than you need to go on fasting. If the patient who is going for the test has got transfusion done then inform the doctor beforehand. When you go for the test, do wear short sleeves or sleeveless as it will be easy to conduct the test. Do get an appointment before when you want to get your Hemoglobin checked.

For the test, the professional usually takes the blood from a vein. In case of an infant, the blood may be taken by puncturing the heel with a small needle (lancet). Before taking the blood from the vein, the skin cleaned with antiseptic and an elastic band (tourniquet) is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and cause the veins to swell with blood than the needle is inserted and the blood is collected from the vein. After this procedure, the band and needle are removed. The professional will put cotton or band-aid on it to stop the blood.

For the test, the professional usually takes the blood from a vein. In case of an infant, the blood may be taken by puncturing the heel with a small needle (lancet). Before taking the blood from the vein, the skin cleaned with antiseptic and an elastic band (tourniquet) is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and cause the veins to swell with blood than the needle is inserted and the blood is collected from the vein. After this procedure, the band and needle are removed. The professional will put cotton or band-aid on it to stop the blood.