Why is Lab Testing for Children Important?

The last thing any parent wants to hear is that their child needs to undergo lab testing for a medical issue they’re having. It’s a scary situation for both the child and the parent. However, it is necessary to identify issues early on and get your child the treatment they need.

When you bring your child to Paseo Nuevo Urgent Care in El Paso, you’re bringing them to an urgent care clinic that will take great care of them. If your child requires urgent care, give us a call at (915) 777-3493 or contact us online today.

What is the Lab Test Looking For?

If your child requires lab testing, the doctor will take a small sample from them to be tested. The test will ultimately determine if your child’s organs are working how they’re supposed to, but it can also check for any conditions or diseases. A couple of things lab testing can detect are if your child has an infection, if they have a healthy amount of electrolytes, the different types of blood cells in your child’s system, their blood group, or if they have any illnesses or medical conditions. Lab tests that Paseo Nuevo offers are blood, urine, and swabs. 

What to Expect During the Test

Read below for a breakdown of what you will see during blood, urine, and swab lab tests

Blood

A blood test will be taken via arm, heel, or fingertip. Typically, blood drawn from the heel is only done for newborns shortly after birth. During the blood extraction, make sure your child is looking at you and not the person drawing blood. Your comforting face will help them feel more relaxed and can help the procedure go more smoothly. 

Urine

Your child will need to provide a urine sample in a small cup. This test is usually painless unless your child has an infection or rash in which then there will be some mild discomfort. If your child is too young to hold the cup themselves, you will have to hold it for them to catch the sample. It’s recommended to make sure your child drinks a lot of water before visiting the doctor’s office so they are prepared. Another trick you can try if your child is struggling to urinate in the cup is to turn on the faucet from the sink to help stimulate urine flow. 

Swab

Swab tests will diagnose any potential respiratory infections. The cotton-tipped swab will be inserted in your child’s nostril and rotated around the area for about 10-15 seconds. This step will be repeated in the other nostril as well. A nose swab can become uncomfortable, especially if the doctor has to push the swab deeper into the nose. Your child may gag or feel the urge to sneeze, which is completely normal. Make sure to comfort them if they begin to become upset and reassure them the test will be over before they know it. 

Reliable Lab Testing

Paseo Nuevo, located in El Paso, offers in-lab testing, which means our results are fast, efficient, and reliable. Combined with our walk-in services, we can guarantee that you and your child will be in and out in no time. 

Does your child require lab testing? Call at (915) 777-3493 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment!

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