Services

BNP Test

BNP (B-Type natriuretic peptide) is a hormone which increases in the blood when the heart muscle is damaged or under extra stress, even in apparently stable patients.  In order to measure the BNP level, a small blood test is required. A BNP blood test may help the Doctor determine the reason for symptoms such as shortness of breath, tiredness or palpitations. The blood test may also be used to give an early warning that a patient’s heart failure has gotten worse, or to monitor how effective their heart failure medication is.

How is the test performed?

Your patient will sit on a chair or lie on a couch, whichever they prefer; whilst a small amount of blood will be taken.  The sample is then placed in a machine that detects the level of BNP in their blood. 

Will it be painful?

No, it should not; your patient should only feel a slight scratch as the needle punctures their skin.

Who will do the test?

The Clinical Physiologist will take the blood sample and put it into the analysis machine. The results will be reported on by a Consultant Cardiologist.

Does your patient need to fast?

No - the test can be carried out without the need to fast.

How long will the test take?

It will take about 5 minutes to take the sample.  It takes the machine about 20 minutes to analyse the blood.  A Consultant Cardiologist will then report on the readings and forward a report onto you..