The Little-Known Differences Between STAT and Routine Blood Draws

 

Some patients are told their blood tests are "STAT," while others are told to take a routine blood test.

Wondering what the difference is?

STAT and routine blood draws have been a significant discovery in healthcare. But both procedures can be distinguished based on subtle yet essential differences.

While the word "STAT" is Latin for "immediately," the term "routine" refers to anything that can wait until later.

Thus, the biggest difference between a routine blood draw and a STAT blood draw is the urgency with which they are analyzed.

Here’s how you can differentiate between the two:

STATBlood Draws

A STAT blood draw is also referred to as an urgent, priority, or rapid response lab testing order. It indicates that a sample should be sent immediately to the lab for processing and evaluation.

STAT blood draws at the doctor's office, hospital, or clinic are used for patients in critical condition or those who need immediate medical attention for their symptoms. In these cases, doctors want to get results back as soon as possible to determine how to best proceed with treatment.

The turnaround time for STAT blood draws is less than an hour in most cases, although it could take a little longer depending on how busy the lab is when a patient arrives.

STAT can also refer to imaging studies (e.g., X-rays or MRIs), medications, or other medical procedures that need to be performed as soon as possible.

Routine Blood Draws

Routine blood draws are less urgent than STAT orders, so labs don't rush them through the process.

If a doctor sees a patient who has symptoms but isn't in danger of dying or losing consciousness, they may request a routine blood draw that’ll be processed within 24 hours.

These tests can be used to diagnose chronic conditions or for preventative healthcare. For example, a doctor might want you to get routine blood work done every year to monitor changes in your cholesterol or blood sugar levels.

Since routine blood draws are not necessarily emergencies, patients have time to schedule them in advance. This gives them time to get physically and mentally ready for them, such as ensuring they’ve eaten or drunk enough water or other fluids beforehand.

How Can Mobile Phlebotomy Services Help With Blood Draws?

Mobile phlebotomy services like in home phlebotomy services VA can assist with routine and stat blood draws, depending on your needs.

Phlebotomy on Wheels is a trusted mobile lab service provider VA known for its wide range of home blood draw services.

These include 24-hour STAT mobile blood draw, as well as routine blood draws for paternity and pregnancy testing, collection of urine and stool samples, and specimen pickup and delivery.

You can reach out to them today to schedule your appointment.