A substantially automatic blood parameter testing apparatus for obtaining a blood sample and determining the concentration of at least one analyte is connected to a venous or arterial access line and further comprises a pump fixedly attached to a tube originating from the vascular access point; a valve fixedly attached to the tube and located above the pump mechanism; at least one measurement element; a needleless port; and an electronic meter. In addition, the automated blood parameter testing apparatus may be integrated into a complete system, further including a monitor and a central monitoring station.