What is bloodwork?
Bloodwork, or blood tests, can help providers at La Providence Pediatrics and Family Clinics to diagnose and treat illnesses or diseases your child might have. The team makes bloodwork as comfortable and stress-free as possible for your child.
Why might my child need bloodwork?
Your child might need blood work for a variety of reasons. Providers at La Providence Pediatrics and Family Clinics may recommend bloodwork for your child to check for:
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Other vitamin or mineral deficiencies
- Hormone imbalances
- Thyroid disorders
- Diabetes
- Certain illnesses
- Infections
- Inflammation
- Kidney, heart, or liver problems
- Certain cancers
In addition to blood tests, the pediatrician may suggest that your child undergo nasal or throat swabs, urine tests, allergy tests, asthma testing, heart function tests, X-rays, or other imaging procedures to make a final diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
What should I expect during my child’s bloodwork appointment?
During your child’s pediatric appointment at La Providence Pediatrics and Family Clinics, they’re greeted by welcoming staff. Providers check their temperature, weight, blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs.
The team reviews your child’s medical history and asks about any current symptoms. Highly trained pediatricians complete a comprehensive physical examination to look for signs of illness and disease. If your child’s pediatrician recommends bloodwork, the provider gently pricks their skin with a tiny needle to take a sample of blood for lab analysis.
What are my child’s treatment options after bloodwork?
After your child’s provider receives results from the bloodwork, they might recommend treatment. The La Providence Pediatrics and Family Clinics team tailors treatment plans to help your child feel better quickly or to better manage a chronic disease. They may suggest:
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Prescription medications
- Rest
- Dietary supplements
- Increased fluid intakes
- Injections
- Using an inhaler
- Further diagnostic testing
- Specialist referrals
If your child has a complex medical problem requiring a specialist’s care, their pediatrician can refer out to a highly qualified provider as needed.
The next time your child doesn’t feel well or experiences new or unusual symptoms, schedule an appointment by phone or online with pediatric experts at La Providence Pediatrics and Family Clinics today.
