MEDICAL LABORATORY

Laboratory investigations.
Informed clinical decisions.

Learn about medical laboratory testing at Prime Health Diagnostic Center in Gaduwa, Abuja, and enquire about the investigation your healthcare professional has recommended.

Illustrative equipment used in a medical laboratory — Illustrative healthcare photography

UNDERSTANDING LABORATORY TESTING

A sample can provide
useful information.

Laboratory investigations examine a clinical specimen, such as blood or urine. They may help a healthcare professional investigate symptoms, monitor a condition or assess how treatment is working.

The specimen and method depend on the test. Ask the centre whether your sample is collected during a visit or whether you need specific collection instructions. Do not collect or bring a specimen without checking the requirements.

Further reading: MedlinePlus — Laboratory tests (opens in a new tab).

Understanding medical laboratory tests

YOUR LABORATORY ENQUIRY

Start with the exact investigation.

Medical laboratory investigations are a core service category. Contact the centre to confirm the individual test on your request.

Clinician-requested tests

Have your referral or investigation request available so you can give the precise test name when enquiring.

Repeat investigations

If your clinician has requested follow-up testing, ask about availability and any visit or sample timing requirements.

Health assessment

For a health checkup, discuss appropriate investigations with your clinician and ask the centre about current options.

Need to confirm a test? Call +234 704 409 9569. Ask about availability, cost and preparation before you visit.

HORMONAL INVESTIGATIONS

Understand your request.
Ask about the details.

Hormones are chemical messengers involved in many body functions. A clinician may request investigations as part of assessing or monitoring hormonal health.

Further reading: MedlinePlus — Hormones (opens in a new tab).

A request might relate to thyroid function, reproductive health or an existing monitoring plan. It is important to confirm the exact test, rather than asking for a general “hormone check”.

Contact the centre with your clinician’s request to ask about current availability. Confirm whether timing or preparation instructions apply. Testing should be interpreted as part of your clinical assessment.

Enquire about your investigation

BEFORE YOUR TEST

Preparation is specific
to your investigation.

Follow the instructions you receive for your test. Do not change prescribed medication without advice from your clinician. If preparation is unclear, ask before the day of your visit.

Read the patient guide

Do I need an appointment or referral?
Are there food, drink or timing instructions?
What identification and documents should I bring?
When and how will my report be available?

WHAT TO EXPECT

From your enquiry
to your next conversation.

Confirm your visit
Check the investigation, preparation, registration requirements and cost with the centre.
Ask before the procedure
Discuss how your sample will be collected. Tell the healthcare professional if you feel anxious or need anything explained.
Confirm report arrangements
Ask about expected timing, collection or delivery, and the contact route for questions about your report.
Discuss your results
Review the report with your clinician, who can explain what it means in the context of your health.

A LITTLE MORE CLARITY

Laboratory questions, answered.

All patient questions

Does every laboratory test require fasting?

No. Preparation varies by test. Only fast if the healthcare professional responsible for your investigation tells you to, and ask for the exact instructions. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician advises you to.

How long do results take?

The time needed depends on the investigation. Ask when your report is expected, how you will be notified and whom to contact if it is delayed. The website does not promise a fixed turnaround time.

Does one result give the full picture of my health?

A laboratory result is one piece of information. Your clinician may also consider your symptoms, examination and medical history. An out-of-range value does not automatically establish a diagnosis, and an in-range result does not rule out every health problem. Read MedlinePlus guidance on understanding results.

READ BEFORE YOU VISIT