Laboratory

• Urinalysis testing is done for diagnosis and treatment of urinary tract infections, kidney issues, and other issues related to the urinary tract.
• If the urinalysis testing confirms bacteria above a defined threshold, a urine culture is done to identify the bacteria for proper treatment
• Urine cultures can take up to 72 hours for identification

Rapid Strep testing can be used to identify Strep Groups A, C & G when sore throat symptoms persist. Identification and treatment of Strep is important in preventing potential complications.

• Rapid Strep testing takes approximately 15-20 minutes
• Waiting Rapid Strep testing requires that you remain in the building
•  Upon completion of the testing, you will be given a slip of paper and asked to give it to a clerk in the unit where you were originally seen
• Follow-up Throat Culture testing for a negative Rapid Step test can take up to 72 hours

Within the Chemistry department, a lipid profile includes cholesterol, triglycerides, and high density lipoprotein (HDL), and it requires a 14-hour fast. You are encouraged to drink water during the fasting period, and may take medications with water (unless otherwise specified by your provider), but should have nothing else to eat or drink.

Basic STI screening includes: Chlamydia/Gonorrhea, HIV and Syphilis. Additional testing may be added by the ordering provider.

• Chlamydia/Gonorrhea testing is used to diagnose and/or verify successful treatment of infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. These common sexually transmitted diseases can cause serious complications if not treated.
   
• HIV testing is used in the detection of the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) antigen and/or antibody. The 4th generation testing done at McKinley provides for earlier detection and treatment of the HIV infection, which can greatly improve long-term health.
   
• Syphilis testing is used in the detection of the sexually transmitted bacteria Treponema pallidum. Identification and treatment of this bacterium is necessary to prevent serious long-term systemic complications.

Tuberculosis (TB) screening is used to screen people who are at high risk of TB exposure.

Quantiferon testing is done to check for TB in patients coming from countries where TB is prevalent. The TB testing fee is not included in the Health Service Fee charged each semester.

Please be aware that Quantiferon testing cannot be drawn after 3 p.m. on Fridays. You may be asked to return to the lab at another time for Quantiferon testing.

Hematology testing includes:

• CBC (Complete Blood Count): information from a CBC assists the provider in identifying potential bacterial or viral infections and can provide other useful information.
• Sedimentation Rate: identifies and/or monitors inflammation in the body.

Chemistry testing includes:

• General chemistry
• Lipid profile
• Liver and kidney function
• Glucose and A1c screening for Diabetes
• Hepatitis
• Vitamin D
• Thyroid Testing