Many illnesses can be investigated through lab tests, and what happens during this service will depend on what lab test is being done.
Common tests include:
Blood test: This involves taking a blood sample from your vein. The nurse will put a tourniquet on the arm, clean the site with antiseptic and using sterile blood collection kits, blood will be withdrawn and processed for various tests. Blood tests can be used to check blood count, blood chemistry and liver function.
Urine test: You will be asked to collect your urine in a container. Urine tests can be used to check things like protein, sugar, certain types of bacteria, and pregnancy.
Stool test: You will be asked to collect your stool sample in a container. Stool samples can be used to identify intestinal parasites or other micro-organisms.
Culture test: Blood, urine and stool specimens can be cultured to identify micro-organisms, and help determine more effective treatments.