Laboratory

Our laboratory comprises talented and competent receptionists, phlebotomists and technical staff.  But we are not physicians. The reason for ordering a test is best explained by your provider.

You will have a shorter wait if you make an appointment because the paperwork will be done ahead of time.  Walk-ins will be worked in around the scheduled appointments. 

Certain tests give the provider a clearer picture of your condition if the specimens are collected after you have been fasting for 10 – 12 hours. If you call us for this information and can tell us the name of the test(s) which has been ordered, we can tell you if the results are best on a fasting specimen. Your physician will instruct you about this before you come to the lab.  There may be circumstances dictating that a normally fasting test be performed on a non-fasting specimen.  Be sure to ask your provider if you have any doubt.

Yes. Your phlebotomist will draw your blood in a location that allows easy body repositioning in the event you begin to get light headed.  We want to provide the safest environment possible

There may be some slight discomfort. It helps if you hold still and follow the instructions of your phlebotomist.  You will be able to resume normal activity after your venipuncture.

Despite our best efforts, you may get a bruise. If you apply constant pressure to the draw site for up to five minutes it will help to limit possibly bruising. The skin will stop bleeding before the vein does. Although it may appear to be done bleeding it may in fact not be done. Our policy is to apply a bandage every time; we do this to help prevent bruising.

Certain laboratory tests can be run on blood collected from a finger stick if the collection procedure is performed skillfully and the resulting specimen is adequate in volume and is not otherwise compromised during the collection procedure. However, in most cases a properly performed venipuncture (collection of a blood specimen by means of a needle inserted into a vein) will provide a better specimen, increasing the chance of accurate test results. Patients usually report that a venipuncture procedure is quicker and less painful than a finger stick.

Your provider will give you instructions as to what to do after we have collected your specimen.  It’s always best to ask your provider about this before coming to the lab so that there will be no misunderstanding.

Results will be interpreted by your physician/provider.  He/she is in the best position to explain your test results.

This may vary by provider. Please ask your provider if they will contact you with the results, and when you can expect to be contacted. Contact your provider's office if you have not received your results or if you have any questions. 

A healthcare provider prioritizes his/her work according to patient needs.  If you are ill, you may receive your results within the same hour.  If your tests are for a physical or other non-emergent situation, it may be a few days before you hear back from the office.

Your healthcare provider will provide lab results to you and can interpret the results. 

McFarland Clinic does not accept home medical waste for disposal. Call your local waste disposal facility or your garbage hauler to learn the local policy. 

In Marshalltown, you may utilize a thick detergent bottle with a screw top cap that can be tightly closed or a needle disposal container purchased form a pharmacy.  Avoid containers made of glass or aluminum.  Dispose your sharps directly into this puncture proof container.  Label the container “HOME SHARPS”.  When it is full, notify your garbage hauler that the container will be set alongside your regular garbage for the next pickup.  The local waste facility accepts delivery directly to the landfill office. There is no charge for this.
 

Please contact Business Services with your questions.