Blood Test List

What is a blood test?

A blood test is a laboratory analysis of a blood sample typically collected from a vein or through a fingerprick (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2022). It is one of the most common blood test procedures used in clinical settings to assess, diagnose, and monitor a wide range of health conditions. Blood tests evaluate the presence, quantity, and function of specific components within the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, enzymes, hormones, and electrolytes.

For example, a complete blood count is used to assess cell levels to detect infections, anemia, or hematologic disorders. Blood clotting tests help identify coagulation abnormalities and bleeding risks, while blood enzyme tests can detect markers of tissue damage, including those related to cardiac events.

These tests are also used to monitor chronic diseases, evaluate blood clots, and track the efficacy of treatments. In short, blood tests are essential tools in clinical decision-making and patient management.

Types of blood tests

There are various blood test types used in clinical practice, each serving a distinct diagnostic or monitoring purpose. Some tests focus on basic biochemical parameters, while others evaluate hormonal, immunologic, or oncologic markers.  Most blood tests are performed on venous blood samples, but arterial samples may be used in specialized testing such as arterial blood gas analysis.

Common blood tests

The most common blood tests used in routine medical evaluations provide essential insights into metabolic, hematologic, and cardiovascular health (Baxter Health, n.d.). The basic metabolic panel (BMP) and comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) assess kidney function, electrolyte balance, and liver function through key markers.

The complete blood count (CBC) test analyzes red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help diagnose infections, bone marrow disorders, and anemia (National Library of Medicine, 2022). The lipid panel evaluates cholesterol and triglyceride levels linked to heart disease and stroke risk. A blood glucose test measures sugar levels to screen for diabetes.

Other common blood tests include thyroid panels for hormonal balance, blood clotting assessments like the coagulation panel, and electrolyte panels that measure sodium, potassium, and carbon dioxide levels. These tests are typically ordered during routine checkups or to investigate general symptoms.

Specialized blood tests

Specialized blood tests provide targeted information about specific systems or conditions. For example, tumor markers and circulating tumor cells assist in identifying and monitoring blood cancer and solid tumors (National Cancer Institute, 2023). To diagnose liver disease or damage, liver function tests evaluate hepatic enzymes such as alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP).

C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) detect systemic inflammation (Harrison, 2015), which may indicate autoimmune activity or infection. Endocrine tests assess hormone levels linked to reproductive health, metabolism, and growth. Allergy and autoimmune tests measure antibodies like ANA and IgE to evaluate the immune system for hypersensitivity or autoimmune disorders.

Other key specialized tests include prothrombin time (PT) with (international normalized ratio) INR for anticoagulant monitoring, pancreatic enzyme tests (amylase, lipase) for pancreatic function, and mineral and nutrient panels for deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. These tests often rely on complex chemical reactions and play a critical role in diagnosing and managing complex health conditions, including heart attack, endocrine dysfunctions, and chronic inflammatory diseases.

What is a Blood Test List?

A Blood Test List is a structured reference tool that a healthcare provider can use to identify and organize various blood test types based on clinical needs. It helps streamline test selection during a routine checkup or diagnostic workup by categorizing tests for assessing overall health, organ function, or specific conditions. The list typically includes tests that measure oxygen levels, platelet levels, and biochemical markers related to the heart muscle, kidneys, and metabolic processes.

For example, a lipid profile may reveal high cholesterol levels that contribute to cardiovascular risk (Healthdirect Australia, 2019). Tests that measure acid-base balance and detect waste product buildup, such as creatinine, are essential in evaluating kidney function. The average size of red blood cells can help detect anemia, while platelet abnormalities may explain symptoms like sharp pain or bleeding. Blood samples are processed within several hours, and results are interpreted based on what is considered normal for the body and certain conditions.

How does it work?

The Blood Test List by Carepatron is designed for quick, practical use during clinical encounters. Healthcare providers can seamlessly integrate the template into their workflow, from reviewing diagnostic options to communicating lab needs with patients, making lab planning more efficient and patient care more organized.

Step 1: Access the handout

Click the “Use template” button to access the Blood Test List through Carepatron instantly. This will direct you to download the Carepatron app, where you can open, view, and customize the handout directly within your digital workspace. You can also click "Download" for a PDF copy of this handout.

Step 2: Use the list handout in patient consultation

During a consultation, open the Blood Test List to guide your selection of appropriate tests based on clinical findings. Use it as a point-of-care tool to ensure key diagnostics are considered and aligned with the patient's presenting symptoms or routine care needs.

Step 3: Discuss the information in the handout with the patient

Review selected tests with your patient using clear medical language. Walk them through why each test is being ordered to improve understanding and ensure informed consent before sample collection.

Step 4: Provide additional patient support and next steps

After reviewing the Blood Test List, provide instructions for sample collection, explain result timelines, and arrange follow-up care if needed. Use this step to reinforce clinical reasoning, address concerns, and support continuity of care through additional resources, treatment planning, or specialist referral.

Benefits of using this handout list

Using the Blood Test List handout offers clear workflow advantages for medical professionals. It provides a structured format for referencing many different types of blood tests in one place, streamlining test selection during clinical assessments. The handout supports efficient documentation and ensures that essential diagnostics—such as electrolyte tests or panels that evaluate the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen—are not overlooked.

By standardizing the testing process, clinicians can reduce the likelihood of omissions and maintain consistency in care delivery. The handout also simplifies patient communication about test purposes and expectations, particularly when discussing blood test results during follow-ups. It saves time during patient consultations and aids in faster diagnostic decision-making.

Moreover, having quick access to tests ranging from basic metabolic panels to hormone assessments ensures that medical professionals can address routine evaluations and more complex conditions with high accuracy and clinical relevance.

References

Baxter Health. (n.d.). Common lab tests. Baxter Health. https://www.baxterhealth.org/medical-services/lab-pathology/common-lab-tests/

Harrison, M. (2015). Abnormal laboratory results: Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. Australian Prescriber, 38(3), 93–94. https://doi.org/10.18773/austprescr.2015.034

Healthdirect Australia. (2019, October 12). Cholesterol and lipid tests. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cholesterol-and-lipid-tests

National Cancer Institute. (2023, December 7). Tumor markers in common use. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/diagnosis-staging/diagnosis/tumor-markers-list

National Library of Medicine. (2024, October 15). Complete blood count (CBC): MedlinePlus lab test information. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/complete-blood-count-cbc/

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022, March 24). Blood tests. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/blood-tests