Receiving lab results from Alberta Health can be a daunting experience, especially when trying to decipher the various medical terms and numbers. Understanding these results is crucial for patients to take control of their health and make informed decisions. In this article, we will delve into the explanation of 10 common Alberta Health lab results, providing patients with a comprehensive guide to navigate their reports.
Introduction to Alberta Health Lab Results
Alberta Health lab results are an essential tool for healthcare providers to diagnose, treat, and monitor various medical conditions. These results can include a wide range of tests, such as blood work, urine analysis, and imaging studies. Each test provides valuable information about a patient’s health, and understanding these results is vital for effective care. In this section, we will explore the different types of lab results and their significance in patient care.
Understanding Lab Result Components
A typical lab result from Alberta Health includes several components, such as the test name, result value, reference range, and units of measurement. The test name indicates the specific test performed, while the result value represents the patient’s result. The reference range provides a benchmark for normal values, allowing healthcare providers to interpret the result. Units of measurement are also crucial, as they help to quantify the result. For example, a blood glucose test result may be measured in millimoles per liter (mmol/L).
| Test Name | Result Value | Reference Range | Units of Measurement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blood Glucose | 6.5 | 3.6-6.1 mmol/L | mmol/L |
| White Blood Cell Count | 8.0 | 4.0-11.0 x10^9/L | x10^9/L |
10 Common Alberta Health Lab Results Explained
In this section, we will provide an in-depth explanation of 10 common Alberta Health lab results, including their significance, reference ranges, and implications for patient care.
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is a comprehensive test that measures various components of the blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This test helps to diagnose and monitor conditions such as anemia, infection, and blood clotting disorders. A typical CBC result includes values for hemoglobin, hematocrit, and white blood cell count.
2. Blood Glucose
Blood glucose tests measure the level of glucose in the blood, which is essential for diagnosing and managing diabetes. The result value is compared to a reference range to determine if the patient’s glucose level is within a healthy range. For example, a result value of 6.5 mmol/L may indicate impaired glucose regulation.
3. Lipid Profile
A lipid profile test measures the levels of various lipids in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides. This test helps to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease and monitor the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapies. A typical lipid profile result includes values for total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
4. Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
Liver Function Tests (LFTs) measure the levels of various enzymes and proteins in the blood that are produced by the liver. These tests help to diagnose and monitor liver diseases, such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. A typical LFT result includes values for alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and bilirubin.
5. Kidney Function Tests (KFTs)
Kidney Function Tests (KFTs) measure the levels of various waste products in the blood that are filtered by the kidneys. These tests help to diagnose and monitor kidney diseases, such as chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. A typical KFT result includes values for creatinine and urea.
6. Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs)
Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs) measure the levels of various hormones produced by the thyroid gland. These tests help to diagnose and monitor thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. A typical TFT result includes values for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and free triiodothyronine (FT3).
7. Electrolyte Panel
An electrolyte panel measures the levels of various electrolytes in the blood, including sodium, potassium, and chloride. These tests help to diagnose and monitor electrolyte imbalances, which can be caused by various conditions, such as dehydration and kidney disease.
8. Inflammatory Marker Tests
Inflammatory marker tests measure the levels of various proteins in the blood that are produced in response to inflammation. These tests help to diagnose and monitor inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis and autoimmune disorders. A typical inflammatory marker test result includes values for C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
9. Coagulation Tests
Coagulation tests measure the blood’s ability to clot, which is essential for preventing excessive bleeding. These tests help to diagnose and monitor coagulation disorders, such as hemophilia and thrombophilia. A typical coagulation test result includes values for prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).
10. Urinalysis
Urinalysis is a comprehensive test that measures various components of the urine, including pH, protein, and blood. This test helps to diagnose and monitor urinary tract infections, kidney diseases, and other conditions that affect the urinary system.
What do I do if my lab results are abnormal?
+If your lab results are abnormal, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider to discuss the implications and determine the next steps. Your healthcare provider may order additional tests or recommend treatment to manage the underlying condition.
Can I access my lab results online?
+Yes, many healthcare providers offer online access to lab results through patient portals or electronic health records. Patients can log in to their accounts to view their lab results, which can help to facilitate communication with their healthcare provider and promote patient engagement.
How often should I have lab tests performed?
+The frequency of lab tests depends on various factors, including the patient’s medical history, age, and health status. Healthcare providers may recommend regular lab tests to monitor chronic conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, or to screen for diseases, such as cancer or cardiovascular disease.
