Laboratory Testing

Blood tests are done as part of overall medical screening to ensure your safe participation in work activities. Common blood tests that are performed for screening include:

Cholesterol
Blood count
Liver function
Kidney function
Electrolytes
Blood sugar

Some additional tests that are specific to your work may be requested as well:

Blood Lead level, if you work around metals that contain lead
TB, if you are exposed to people or animals potentially infected with tuberculosis
Cholinesterase, if you handle pesticides

For accuracy, some blood tests require fasting for 8 hours prior to having blood drawn. Drinking water prior to blood testing is permitted.

Depending on your location and employer, you may have your blood drawn during your appointment by our certified phlebotomist, or, prior to your appointment at a Quest laboratory.

Cholinesterase

For employees who work with or around organophosphate and carbamate pesticides, screening is done to ensure that they are not being overexposed. Red blood cell (RBC) cholinesterase, call"true cholinesterase" and plasma cholinesterase, called "pseudocholinesterase" are both checked with a blood test. Plasma cholinesterase is useful for detecting early effects of organophosphate poisoning, while red blood cell readings are useful in evaluating long-term exposure.

Overexposure to organophosphate and carbamate insecticides can interfere with the cholinesterase normally found at nerve endings in the nervous system. This allows acetylcholine to build up, while protective levels of the cholinesterase enzyme decrease.

Tuberculosis (TB) Screening

Tuberculosis (TB) screening can be performed in 2 different ways:
1. PPD testing (purified protein derivative), is the traditional skin testing method. It requires a return visit to a licensed medical provider to have the test read within 48-72 hours.
2. Quantiferon Gold is a blood test, also known as IGRA (Interferon Gamma Release Assay). No follow up visit is needed.

For positive results of either test, a symptom questionnaire and chest x-ray are required.

Urinalysis

Urinalysis, or urine testing, is used to screen for a variety of health conditionssuch as kidney disease, diabetes, and urinary tract infections. Specialized urine testing may also be used to measure environmental exposures to toxicants including heavy metals and solvents.

Urinalysis does not involve drug testing.

Occupational Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

Quest Diagnostics