Lab Tests Q&A

What are lab tests?

Lab tests are advanced analyses of fluid or tissue samples. Blood tests are widely used in medical labs but are not the only type of lab test you might need. Lab tests can also evaluate:

 

  • Urine samples
  • Stool samples
  • Nasal swabs
  • Throat swabs
  • Endocrinology Stimulation Testing

 

The team at Abdow Friendship Pediatrics collects all samples for lab testing. They can perform many lab tests in the convenient in-house lab, leading to a more accurate evaluation and diagnosis of your child’s medical concerns. 

 

The in-house lab produces results as quickly since the samples don’t need to travel to a third-party location for testing. This makes it easier for you to get the results and to communicate with your child’s providers.

Which lab tests are available?

Abdow Friendship Pediatrics provides several types of lab testing in the office to gather important details about your child’s health. Your child might need lab testing for a new diagnosis or to track a condition over time. Lab testing also helps show whether a particular treatment is providing results. 

 

Abdow Friendship Pediatrics uses the in-house lab for:

 

  • Lead testing
  • Cholesterol testing
  • Glucose testing
  • Strep testing
  • Flu testing
  • Urine Dips
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) testing
  • COVID-19 testing

 

The team tells you what to expect before your child gets any lab tests. They ensure your child only receives the necessary lab tests and that you fully understand their purpose. 

When do I get my lab test results?

The time it takes to get your lab test results varies. Some offer results right away, such as a rapid strep test or a COVID-19 test. For other tests, you must wait a few days. 

 

If your child’s test results aren’t available immediately, the team at Abdow Friendship Pediatrics gives you a call as soon as they’re ready. They interpret the results, describing the implications. 

 

The team then uses your child’s lab test results to plan treatment or adjust a treatment plan. They might change the dose of a medication your child takes or prescribe a new one. Additional lab tests may be needed in the future to track the success of a treatment. 

 

Find out more about lab tests and what they indicate by scheduling an appointment over the phone or online at Abdow Friendship Pediatrics today.

We specialize in Pediatric and Adolescent medicine in Rockville, MD. Call us to book your appointment today.