Why do doctors order cbc

A blood test can be slightly uncomfortable. When the needle punctures your skin, you might feel a prick or pinching sensation. Some people also feel faint or light-headed when they see blood. Afterwards, you may have minor bruising, but it will clear up within a few days. In young infants, a nurse will typically sterilize the heel of the foot and use a small needle called a lancet to prick the area.

The nurse will then gently squeeze the heel and collect a small amount of blood in a vial for testing. Test results will vary based on your blood cell counts.

Here are the normal results for adults, but different labs may deliver slight variations:. A CBC is not a definitive diagnostic test. Blood cell counts that are too high or too low could signal a wide variety of conditions. Specialized tests are needed to diagnose a specific condition. Conditions that could cause an abnormal CBC and may require additional testing include:. If your CBC shows abnormal levels, your doctor may order another blood test to confirm results.

They may also order other tests to help further evaluate your condition and confirm a diagnosis. White blood cells, or WBCs, are an important part of your immune system. They help fight infections by attacking bacteria, viruses, and germs. Once your doctor has determined a health condition does exist, they can properly treat and monitor it. At Hampton Family Practice, our team is committed to providing top notch healthcare that answers all of your questions.

Schedule your annual physical exam and bloodwork by contacting us today! Previous Next. What Is It Testing For? Most blood tests take a small amount of blood from a vein. To do that, a health professional will:. In babies, blood draws are sometimes done as a "heel stick collection.

Collecting a sample of blood is only temporarily uncomfortable and can feel like a quick pinprick. Parents usually can stay with their child during a blood test. Encourage your child to relax and stay still because tensing muscles can make it harder to draw blood. Your child might want to look away when the needle is inserted and the blood is collected. Help your child to relax by taking slow deep breaths or singing a favorite song.

Most blood tests take just a few minutes. If your blood sample will be used for additional tests, you may need to fast for a certain amount of time before the test.

Your doctor will give you specific instructions. For a complete blood count, a member of your health care team takes a sample of blood by inserting a needle into a vein in your arm, usually at the bend in your elbow. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. You can return to your usual activities immediately. A complete blood count is typically not a definitive diagnostic test.

Depending on the reason your doctor recommended this test, results outside the normal range may or may not require follow-up. Your doctor may need to look at the results of a CBC along with results of other blood tests, or additional tests may be necessary. For example, if you're otherwise healthy and have no signs or symptoms of illness, results slightly outside the normal range on a complete blood count may not be a cause for concern, and follow-up may not be needed.

Of if you're undergoing cancer treatment, the results of a complete blood count outside the normal range may indicate a need to alter your treatment plan. In some cases, if your results are significantly above or below the normal ranges, your doctor may refer you to a doctor who specializes in blood disorders hematologist.