RE: lab work being done

[Guest guest]

Hi Abijann,

There have been a few times where my knowledge of proper testing process has

saved the day on the test. Now I always remind the tech testing me to read

the test notes first. Most errors I've come across have been the PCR tests

for my viral load. But that isn't applicable to those not infected with a

viral hepatitis or HIV.

Sally

lab work being done

I am reading into now about how lab testing is done. I have been reading

lab work for some times now and learning what the test means, but I thought

I would do research into the tests themselves. I'm

just starting to get into this and realized how very much is involved in all

this.

A lot of things can take place where the true results of the tests may not

turn out right. As many know, some testing has to be done after you fast

awhile before taking it...this is well known.

Different tests require many different things and each has to be determined

as what test they apply to: Having to be placed immediatedly into ice Some

have to set awhile from the ice and become warm before testing. Have to be

transported from one place to another without shaking Have to not be exposed

to light (like bilirubin) Have to be done within certain time periods Have

to have each blood component separated Have to use the serum or plasma in

the test done. Have to be taken from the patient very slowly so it doesn't

cause lysis of the cells. (like potassium)

Have to be placed in certain solutions to keep it from clotting.(RBC) Even

the cells can continue to cause changes in the results by continuely to

metabolize when taken from the body. Are placed in different chemicals when

taken, the tubes are colored according to the solution needed.

Alot of this, I already knew, but some was a surprise to me which made it

interesting. This is just some of the things I found and though I would

share.