Huntsville Hospital Laboratory Services is committed to providing quality laboratory services.
Lab tests are done on different types of specimens. The two most common specimens sampled are blood and urine. Tests may also need to be performed at specific times and/or on fasting specimens.
These are simple examples of just a few of the possible lab tests and collection methods you may expect for your lab work. Your physician will give you any specific instructions your tests require.. Fasting Specimens
Fasting Specimens are collected in the morning after no food or drink has been consumed for the previous 12 hours. Some tests may also require that smoking,exercise or medication be eliminated prior to testing. Your physician will inform you of any requirements.
Blood Specimens
Blood specimens are collected by venipuncture or fingerstick. Venipuncture is performed by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm. For some tests,a fingerstick specimen is adequate. Very little discomfort is associated with either procedure.
Urine Specimens
Urine is the second most common type of specimen analyzed. There are various methods of collection based on your sex and the test(s) ordered. Your physician will instruct you on how to properly collect a urine specimen.
Other Specimens
Additional specimens tested include stool,sputum,throat swabs or others as directed by physician.
Multiple Specimens
More than one specimen is frequently needed for testing. One test that requires multiple specimens is the glucose tolerance test. A special drink is consumed with a known amount of glucose. Blood is then drawn at designated intervals over an extended period. Urine specimens may also be required.
Special Testing Procedures
Some lab tests require special testing procedures. One example is a bleeding time study. This test is used to detect possible bleeding problems. The lab tech will make one or two small incisions and monitor the amount of time it takes for the bleeding to stop.