Blood Testing Laboratory

At Precision Labs, we know how important it is to receive fast and accurate results for any blood test, which is why our blood testing laboratory features state-of-the-art equipment, and we’re proud to have a knowledgable staff of professionals who treat every sample with care, precision, and priority. 

Because we work with so many different service providers, including nursing homes/assisted living facilities, physician offices, and home health agencies, we take the stability and security of our blood testing laboratory in St. Louis very seriously. 

So, no matter where you need our experienced phlebotomists, you can count on accurate and timely results from our blood testing laboratory. 

Still, not many people are aware of what exactly goes on in a blood lab, and we feel that transparency is important! With that in mind, let’s talk a bit more about our blood testing laboratory and the process behind it, once blood samples are taken. 

What is the Purpose of a Blood Test?

People get blood tests for a variety of reasons. There’s so much we can learn through blood alone, which is why it’s important to have regular blood tests, especially if you have any underlying conditions or illnesses. 

A blood test can help to detect diseases like heart disease or diabetes. But, it can also reveal how your organs are functioning and ensure that everything is working properly. If you’re on any specific medications, a blood test can help to determine if they’re working, causing any adverse effects, and can help your physician or primary care provider determine what the next steps should be in any kind of treatment or maintenance plan. 

Once blood is drawn, it’s taken to the lab to be tested before the results are given to your healthcare provider. 

How is Blood Tested in a Lab?

Blood is tested in different ways once the sample arrives to the lab. It depends on what type of test needs to be done, and what we’re looking for. 

In many cases, we perform what is called a Complete Blood Count (CBC). This estimates the number of red and white blood cells within your body while also looking for certain blood disorders and any abnormalities within those counts. This type of blood test can help to identify medical conditions including: 

• Asthma
• Anemia
• Allergies
• Lymphoma
• Respiratory/circulatory issues

A CBC uses a machine that detects how your blood cells react to light. It’s the data collected from that reaction that can help your healthcare provider to determine what issues you might be dealing with. 

Another type of blood test that can be done in our lab involves a machine called a centrifuge. This allows us to place the blood sample in the machine, which spins it around at a fast pace for a few minutes. This forces your blood cells to fall to the bottom of the sample and leaves something called “blood serum” at the top. We’re then able to test that blood serum without any kind of interference from the cells. 

This allows us to detect any substances in your blood that could be causing medical issues. This type of process is often used for checking your metabolism and how your organs are functioning, but it can also detect cancer markers. 

What Are the Different Types of Blood Tests Performed in a Lab?

There are so many different things we can do in the lab, including several different types of tests. We’ve already touched on the CBC, but some of the other common tests performed in a blood testing laboratory include: 

• Basic metabolic panel
• Complete metabolic panel
• Lipid panel
• Thyroid panel
• Enzyme markers
• Coagulation panel

The type of testing your blood sample goes through at our blood testing lab will be determined by your healthcare provider or primary physician. Not everyone needs the same type of testing, especially when your doctor is looking for specific things within your blood. If you’re curious as to what your blood is being tested for, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider beforehand so you can be fully aware of what the results of your bloodwork may be. 

Getting Your Blood Test Results

How quickly you receive your blood test results will depend on the methods needed to check your blood. In many cases, our lab can return the results to your healthcare provider within hours or days, depending on several factors. If your healthcare provider notices any abnormalities or things that need to be addressed within your blood results, they will either work with you to develop a treatment plan or refer you to a specialist who can help. 

Though the blood-drawing process is easy, it’s understandable to be anxious, and even a bit nervous while you’re waiting for your blood test results. That’s why, at Precision Labs, we do our best to deliver your results in a timely manner, while taking the care that’s needed to provide accurate and thorough results. 

This is important information to pass on to your patients, residents, or anyone else who may be receiving blood testing services under your care. Again, at Precision Labs, we think transparency is very important, which is why we make it clear what patients and providers alike can expect from blood testing lab services. 

If you are in need of professional blood testing services, feel free to contact us for more information. Our team of experienced phlebotomists will be happy to reiterate any of the information above to your patients or those needing a blood draw, and we’ll remain in close contact with you about the process as well. If you’re a healthcare provider or primary care physician, our lab will work with you to get the blood draw results quickly, so you can pass important information onto your patients. 

When it comes to choosing the right team for blood draws and precision lab work in St. Louis, we hope you’ll consider Precision Labs for a professional touch, premier patient service, and so much more. If you have any questions or would like to set up a blood draw at a specific location, please contact us today.