Did you know that there are over 5,000 tests that can be run in a clinical laboratory? Each of these tests has its own specific purpose.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at what clinical lab testing involves, some of the most common laboratory tests, and what they’re used for.
What Does Clinical Lab Testing Involve?
A clinical lab testing involves a medical professional collecting a sample of blood, tissue, or other biological matter from the patient. The specimen is then sent to the clinical laboratory where it is then analyzed by specially trained medical professionals using sophisticated equipment.
Once testing is complete, the lab will issue a report with the findings to the ordering physician, who will interpret the results. After interpreting the results, the physician will discuss the findings with the patient and determine the best course of action.
Common Types of Lab Tests
Outlined below are the most common types of lab tests – blood and urine analyses:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – This evaluates your overall health and screens for a variety of disorders including anemia, infection, and cancer: it measures red and white blood cells, platelets hemoglobin and hematocrit.
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) – This assesses different substances in the blood to provide key information about the body’s chemical balance and metabolism.
- Urinalysis – This detects or monitors a disorder, such as a urinary tract infection, diabetes, and kidney disease.
Other tests can include:
- Fingerstick blood glucose/Accucheck
- Influenza (flu) test
- COVID 19 testing
- Mononucleosis (“mono”) screening
- Occult blood test
- Pregnancy testing
- Strep throat screening
- Lipid panel
- Liver panel
- Thyroid testing
- Hemoglobin A1C testing
- Cultures (to test for other infections)
Why Do I Need a Lab Test?
Clinical laboratory tests are used for a wide variety of purposes, including the following:
- Identifying signs of nutrient deficiencies
- Detecting any changes in your health
- Evaluating bodily functions, such as the kidney, liver, or thyroid function
- Monitoring treatment or disease progression
The information that a clinical laboratory test provides enables clinicians to formulate an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan or determine whether further assessment is necessary.
Lab Testing in Rochester, NY
If you need clinical laboratory test, visit us here at Cornerstone Urgent Care Center in Rochester, New York. We have state-of-the-art diagnostic radiology and clinical laboratory testing facilities on site, which means we are highly equipped to provide timely diagnoses to ensure necessary interventions are carried out right away.
We are open from 8 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday and from 9 am to 7 pm on weekends. No appointment is necessary. If you would like more information, please call us at (585) 207-0088 or alternatively, you can send us a message now.
