Laboratory Testing

At Louisiana Internal Medicine and Pediatric Associates, our team of physicians and technicians use laboratory test to develop a deeper understanding of a patient’s condition. Laboratory test requires a sample of the patient’s blood, urine or body tissues, as a tool to further map internal function. Following testing, a technician analyzes the sample to determine whether the patient’s results fall

within normal, healthy range. Ranges are an essential aspect of discovery, since standards vary throughout the population, and depends on several factors. Maintaining a good balance is the key to a healthy lifestyle. Age, sex, race, diet and medicine intake all influence results. Physicians at LIMPA are vital in interpreting these results in light of the above.

Lab Tests for a Better Living

Some tests provide precise, detailed and reliable information regarding a particular health issue. However, other tests are more general, and directly help our doctors identify possible health risks. We commonly use laboratory test in conjunction with imaging testing to develop a broad understanding of the patient’s condition.

Laboratory test results influence many of the decisions our doctors make about a patient’s health care or treatment. Every test performed by technicians at LIMPA is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and monitored for accuracy.

ABOUT OUR CLINIC

Our test materials and equipment meet strict national standards. At Louisiana Internal Medicine and Pediatric Associates, we perform every test with confidence, always guaranteeing patient safety along with quick, precise and detailed results.

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Happy nurse charting or writing a document

Laboratory Testing Tips

If you are scheduled for a physical, we ask that patients fast for 12 hours prior. Fasting means no eating or drinking, except for water. If you are a diabetic, we ask that you hold your diabetic meds and insulin that morning. Otherwise, we would like you to take any blood pressure medicines on an empty stomach as prescribed.

Patients are asked to drink plenty of water before the test to prevent low blood pressure, fainting, and dizziness. Try to avoid coffee or any other caffeinated beverages, because these cause your body to expel water.

Unless fasting is required for testing, patients should eat breakfast to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. If a patient anticipates being sick or nauseous during testing they should avoid eating before their appointment.

Laboratory testing uses samples of blood, urine or other substances taken from the body. These samples help diagnose disease and reveal other underlying conditions. The technician will use a needle to take a blood sample, ask the patient for a urine sample or use a tool to remove any other sample. The doctor will use the test results to identify any changes in the patient’s condition. Using test results, diagnosing or planning treatment is easier for medical professionals. Doctors also use laboratory test to evaluate a patient’s response to treatment, monitor the course of a disease, or identify risks.

After the sample is collected, it is sent to the laboratory. Technicians perform tests on the sample to determine whether it contains harmful substances, and if so, how much. Depending on the test, the presence, absence or amount of a specific analyte may prove the patient does or does not have a particular condition. In some cases, laboratories use tests as a tool to monitor the progression of a condition and compare results to those obtained from previous tests. Some test shows whether the patient’s results fall within normal ranges. These ranges typically represent values that are normal for a healthy individual of the same size, gender and age group as the patient.

FAQ

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECEIVE TEST RESULTS?

Depending on which test is performed, most tests are completed and results are available within 7 business days. Specific tests may take several weeks to produce results. The report is sent directly to us, and a medical professional at LIMPA will work with you to interpret the results.
HOW DOES MY PHYSICIAN DETERMINE WHICH LABORATORY TEST TO ORDER?

Which lab tests you take are based on your medical history and the results of your most recent exam. Your current symptoms are also taken into consideration. A physician will order a specific test that provides additional clinical information. The resulting details are relevant information necessary constructing a fully formed diagnosis.
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY SAMPLE AFTER IT’S TAKEN?

The sample you provide is labeled with your name, date of birth and any other unique identifiers. Once in the lab, the sample is checked for quality, correct patient identification, sample type and volume, then prepared for testing. After completion, results are transmitted to physicians.
HOW MUCH WILL LABORATORY TESTING COST ME?

LIMPA is dedicated to working with each patient and finding the most affordable healthcare solutions. If you have a question about the specific tests your physician order, please contact your insurance carrier. Our billing office can determine the cost of any out-of-pocket expense there may be if any.