Abstract: An oscillating rheometer adapted for use in measuring rheological properties of blood or the propensity of blood to clot, the rheometer including at lease two surfaces between which a blood sample is introduced, said surfaces being provided as: A first surface, providing a sample receiving member defining a surface for receipt of a blood sample; A second surface, providing a sample contact surface in movable relationship to said first surface. Wherein in use, said first and second surfaces move towards each other so as to sandwich said blood sample between the first and second surfaces, with the blood sample being subjected to a controlled environment provided by way of one or more of the surfaces in contact with the blood to allow for measurement of the rheological properties of the blood or the propensity of the blood to clot.