What are clinical lab tests?
Clinical lab tests are a varied group of laboratory tests, including blood tests, urinalysis, nasal swabs, and throat swabs. North Star Clinic performs some of these tests on-site, with many others processed at a comprehensive, national laboratory.
What do clinical lab tests check for?
There are dozens of different clinical lab tests, but some of the most common screenings check for the following:
- Cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Liver function
- Blood sugar
- Thyroid function
- COVID-19
- Infectious diseases
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Male and female hormone levels
In addition to clinical lab testing for a wide range of diseases and conditions, North Star Clinic also performs on-site urine drug screenings and alcohol breath tests as part of their occupational health monitoring services. They’re one of very few Olympic Peninsula facilities to provide this service.
How should I prepare for clinical lab tests?
Some clinical lab tests require special preparation, which usually involves fasting starting from the night before the test. If you need this type of test, North Star Clinic gives you any info you might need a few days before your appointment.
Many lab tests don’t require any particular preparation, so you might have some tests on the spot during physical exams or a visit for an acute injury.
What are the benefits of clinical lab tests?
Clinical lab tests give you the chance to take control of your health. You can use the information gained from clinical lab tests to identify your risk of disease early. This allows you the chance to make health changes that can prevent disease.
Additionally, clinical lab tests can give you fast answers when you’re feeling sick or worried about a virus or other illness. As soon as you have a positive test, you can start treatment at North Star Clinic right away.
Clinical lab tests also give you clear documentation of your current health status. Some employers require tests, for example, tuberculosis tests, before hiring new employees. With clinical lab tests at North Star Clinic, you can quickly get the proof that you’re healthy and move ahead with your work.
North Star Clinic makes clinical lab testing a smooth and easily accessible process, so don’t delay calling the office or clicking the online scheduler to request your test now.
