Nothing feels more confusing in the medical world than lab work. All the numbers and terminology are often daunting. Pair this with not feeling well and the unknown of what’s wrong, and it’s a stressful time. One way to combat that stress is being prepared for when the lab results come back. Therefore, Part 6 of these series is all about what questions to ask about labs.
What to Ask Prior to Getting Labs Completed
During your appointment with the doctor, when they are requesting labs, is the best time to ask questions. As with all other medical issues, there will often be questions specific to your test or symptoms. However, here are a few overall questions to consider asking:
- Why are we doing these tests?
- What will these lab tests show?
- How long will it take to get the results?
- Do I need to prepare before any of the tests? For example, some bloodwork requires you to fast.
- Do you have an online portal or MyChart that shows labs and allows me to send messages?
What to Ask During Lab Work
It’s important to remember that the phlebotomist typically is the go-between individual. Therefore, they are likely not the best person to ask your questions about the tests and results. If you have questions specific to completing the lab work though, they are the person to ask. For instance, if you are giving a urine sample, you can ask questions related to the best way to get a clean sample.
What to Ask After Your Results Come Back
One of the most important things to remember when you get your lab results back, especially if reviewing in a portal before talking with the doctor, is not to go searching on Google – even if it shows the results are abnormal. There are many instances where abnormal is in fact normal depending on age, currently pregnant or your health history. Abnormal results can also point to something basic like dehydration – sometimes even overhydrated. Yes, overhydrated is a thing. I know firsthand as I’ve had test results come back, and doctors say you are very hydrated!
The two big questions to ask the doctor when your results come back are:
- What do these results mean?
- What are the next steps? This question is applicable if your results come back positive or negative.
Hopefully, this information helps you feel better prepared prior to getting lab work completed. Part 7 of the series which comes out in February is, “Questions to Ask About Medications.”
