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Blood Tests
This is an abbreviated version of the complete article.*
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| Basic Facts |
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Blood tests yield information about many different substances found in blood, such as hormones, minerals, and proteins. |
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Drawing blood poses little risk to a person, and test results can be obtained quickly. |
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Numerous tests can be conducted using a single blood sample. |
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Blood tests can yield information about many different substances found in blood, such as hormones, minerals, and proteins. Typically, blood is drawn from a vein using a syringe, a process called venipuncture.
In urology, the most frequently ordered blood tests include:
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN);
- Creatinine;
- Prostate specific antigen (PSA);
- B-human chorionic gonadotropin (B-hCG);
- Alpha fetoprotein (AFP);
- Uric acid;
- Phosphate; and
- Calcium.
PRE-TEST GUIDELINES
A physician may request the patient avoid certain medications prior to the test.
WHAT TO EXPECT
When blood is drawn, a tourniquet is wrapped around the arm. The patient makes a fist and a sterile, disposable needle is inserted into the vein. A syringe or attached vial is used to collect that blood. After the procedure is complete, a piece of gauze is placed over the insertion point and pressure is applied to stop the bleeding.
POST-TREATMENT GUIDELINES
Patients can resume normal activities following the blood test.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
The patient may experience temporary bruising at the site of needle insertion.
Medical Review Date: April 17, 2009
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