Blood tests can yield information about many different substances found in blood, such as hormones, minerals, and proteins. Typically, blood is drawn from a vein using a syringe, a process called venipuncture.

In urology, the most frequently ordered blood tests include:

• Blood urea nitrogen (BUN);
• Creatinine;
• Prostate specific antigen (PSA);
• B-human chorionic gonadotropin (B-hCG);
• Alpha fetoprotein (AFP);
• Uric acid;
• Phosphate; and
• Calcium.

PRE-TEST GUIDELINES

A physician may request the patient avoid certain medications prior to the test.

WHAT TO EXPECT

When blood is drawn, a tourniquet is wrapped around the arm. The patient makes a fist and a sterile, disposable needle is inserted into the vein. A syringe or attached vial is used to collect that blood. After the procedure is complete, a piece of gauze is placed over the insertion point and pressure is applied to stop the bleeding.

POST-TREATMENT GUIDELINES

Patients can resume normal activities following the blood test.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

The patient may experience temporary bruising at the site of needle insertion.