01 / Explore

Common Laboratory Tests

Different laboratory tests answer different questions. Understanding the broad category can make a report much easier to navigate.

TEST LIBRARY

Blood Tests

May evaluate blood cells, chemistry markers, proteins and other measurable components.

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Urine Tests

May examine physical, chemical and microscopic characteristics of a urine sample.

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Hormone Testing

Measures selected hormones that may vary according to timing, age, medication and other factors.

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Biochemistry Panels

Groups of related measurements used to evaluate particular aspects of body chemistry.

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02 / Visualize

How a Result Is Presented

A laboratory result usually has meaning only when the number is considered alongside its unit, reference range, test method and clinical context.

RESULT VIEW
Example result
5.4 units
Within displayed reference range
Reference range
4.0 – 7.0 units
Understanding a reference range Illustrative example
Lower Reference range Higher
Reference ranges are established by individual laboratories and may vary according to the test method and population used to establish the range. An out-of-range value does not automatically establish a diagnosis.
03 / Follow

The Journey of a Laboratory Sample

Laboratory testing generally involves several stages, from collection through reporting. The exact workflow varies between facilities and tests.

WORKFLOW
✓
Collection Sample obtained
✓
Identification Sample recorded
•
Analysis Testing performed
4
Review Results assessed
5
Report Result issued
04 / Prepare

Before a Laboratory Test

Preparation requirements depend on the specific test. Always follow the instructions supplied by the laboratory or healthcare professional.

PREPARATION
01

Check Instructions

Confirm whether fasting, timing, medication information or other preparation is required before the sample is collected.

02

Provide Accurate Information

Relevant information can help a healthcare professional interpret results appropriately and understand unusual findings.

03

Follow Collection Guidance

Correct sample collection, handling and identification help reduce avoidable errors before analysis begins.

05 / Decode

Reading a Laboratory Report

Most reports contain several pieces of information that should be considered together rather than focusing on one number in isolation.

REPORT GUIDE
✓
Test Name Identifies the measurement or analysis performed.
✓
Result The numerical or qualitative outcome reported by the laboratory.
✓
Measurement Unit Shows how the reported value is expressed.
✓
Reference Range A laboratory-specific comparison range where applicable.
✓
Date and Time Important for tests affected by timing or changing measurements.
✓
Laboratory Details Identifies the facility responsible for the analysis.
!

Important Result Notice

Laboratory results should be interpreted in context. A value outside a displayed reference range does not automatically mean that a person has a disease or medical condition, while a result within a range does not guarantee that everything is normal. Healthcare professionals may consider symptoms, medical history, medications and other findings when interpreting results.

06 / Review

Three Things to Check First

When looking at a laboratory report, start with the basics before attempting to interpret what a result means medically.

QUICK CHECK
01

Is This the Correct Test?

Check the test name and make sure you are looking at the intended result rather than another measurement on the report.

02

What Unit Is Used?

Numbers cannot be interpreted correctly without knowing the measurement unit attached to them.

03

What Range Is Displayed?

Use the reference information printed by the laboratory rather than automatically substituting a range found elsewhere.

07 / Questions

Laboratory Testing FAQ

A few common questions, because apparently laboratory reports were designed by people who enjoy abbreviations.

FAQ
A reference range is a comparison interval established by a laboratory for a particular test and population. It helps provide context for a reported result but is not, by itself, a diagnosis.
Yes. Reference ranges and reported results can differ because laboratories may use different analytical methods, equipment, populations or reporting conventions.
Not necessarily. Results can be influenced by timing, biological variation, preparation, medications, sample quality and many other factors. A healthcare professional can determine whether a finding requires further evaluation.
The reference information printed on your laboratory report is generally the appropriate starting point because ranges may vary between laboratories and methods.
Medication changes should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional. A laboratory result should not be used as the sole basis for changing a prescribed treatment.
Keep laboratory reports securely and retain them according to your personal healthcare needs and any instructions provided by your healthcare professional or healthcare facility.
Final Note

Numbers are information. Context is interpretation.

Laboratory testing can provide useful information about health, but individual results should be considered alongside symptoms, history, examination findings and other relevant information. When a result is unclear, unexpected or concerning, discuss it with a qualified healthcare professional.