After your doctor has written you a request form, there are a number of questions you may have regarding your tests. Whilst the majority of our tests are from blood samples, other tests may be performed on samples of tissue, urine, stools or other body fluids and secretions. The collection staffs at Jerath Pathology are extensively trained to ensure a professional encounter.

Some of the questions you may have are answered below:

DO I NEED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR MY TESTS?

For most tests an appointment is not required and on arrival at the center you will be attended in order. There are a small number of tests that require an appointment and these are listed in specialized test details for each collection centre.

DO I NEED TO FAST?

Not all tests require fasting beforehand. However, there are some tests which will require you to fast for 8 – 15 hours, for example cholesterol, lipids, fasting glucose. Fasting should not exceed 15 hours.

We recommend that you fast overnight. You should drink water during this time and take any medication you would normally take, unless advised by your doctor.

Your doctor will inform you of any tests that require fasting or you may contact Jerath Pathology for advice.

IS THERE ANY RISK OF CONTRACTING DISEASE AT A PATHOLOGY LABORATORY?

This is possible only in places where standardized procedures of sample collection are not followed. The source of risk is mainly the needle prick. The needle should be sterile, and the area where the prick is made should be cleaned with spirit prior to sample collection.

WHY DOES A BLACK OR BLUE BLOTCH APPEAR IN SOME PEOPLE AT THE SITE OF BLOOD COLLECTION? HOW SHOULD IT BE DEALT?

The black or blue blotch appears if the needle pierces the vein through. Some blood leaks into the tissue around the vein. If such a thing happens accidently, you need to ice the site, use the affected arm as little as possible, and take a pain reliever allowed to you.

I AM NERVOUS ABOUT HAVING MY BLOOD TAKEN – IS IT REALLY NECESSARY?

Our collection staff is extensively trained and will endeavor to make you feel at ease. We encourage you to lie down for the procedure if feeling uncomfortable. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing may also prove helpful. Please inform our collection staff if you are feeling nervous or anxious so that we may assist you with the procedure.

HOW DO I KNOW THAT MY SAMPLES WILL NOT BE MIXED UP IN THE LABORATORY?

Our collection staff will confirm your details with you at every visit. This is to ensure we have all the correct information. Each sample is carefully labeled at the time of collection and you will be asked to check these labels. Please do not hesitate to tell the collector if you see any errors including misspelling of your name.

A laboratory number is placed on your request form and samples to ensure they are not mixed up. This number is unique and assists to ensure that the correct tests are performed on each sample.

We have other checks in place throughout the testing procedure to ensure the testing is performed at the highest possible standard.

WHICH IS THE BEST TEST FOR MONITORING CONTROL OF MY BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVELS?

Testing for Glycosylated Hemoglobin gives you an idea of blood glucose control for the past three months. It can help you and your doctor know if the measures you are taking to control your diabetes are successful or need to be adjusted.

CAN I GET RESULTS OF URINE CULTURE ON THE SAME DAY OF SUBMISSION OF MY SAMPLE WITH THE LABORATORY?

You may get preliminary information of whether a growth is there, but a final report showing drug sensitivity of cultured bacteria is available only the next day, even with the latest equipment and technology.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME FOR BLOOD COLLECTION IN INFANTS?

Blood for analysis in infants should be collected prior to feed, as milky & turbid serum interferes with certain testing.

WHEN AND HOW SHOULD I COLLECT URINE SAMPLE?

If you wish to collect urine sample at home, kindly collect a labeled container from our laboratory. You must collect early morning midstream sample for best results. After collection, the sample must be sent within 1- 2 hours to the laboratory.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AUTOMATED TESTING AND MANUAL TESTING?

Automated testing is more accurate. However, no amount of automation can equal the decision making capability of a skilled and experienced worker.

WHEN WILL MY RESULTS BE READY?

Routine test results are generally available within 2-3 days of collection. However, some testing is more involved and may take longer.

To assist you in organizing an appointment with your doctor, we encourage you to ask your doctor when the results will be available.