From time to time, lab tests are an important addition to your child’s health care. We know many kids feel more comfortable at the Children’s Clinic than going to an unfamiliar lab. We also know that it is easier for parents to have lab draws completed during visits to the clinic rather than being sent to a lab after their visits for a blood draw. This is why lab draws are available at the Children’s Clinic’s two locations, on the West End and in downtown Billings, Montana. Whether you’re coming in specifically for lab testing or a routine well-child exam, booking your visit is as simple as a phone call or a few moments on the online appointment request page.

What are lab tests?

Lab tests are diagnostic tools that examine cells or other components of blood, urine, or tissue samples. They give your provider powerful information into how well your body is functioning. 

Blood testing can also be a powerful diagnostic tool in pediatric care. By gathering a small volume of blood, numerous tests can be run from the same sample.

When do I know if lab testing is necessary?

Most children do not need routine lab testing until and unless symptoms arise. At that point, your pediatrician advises you on which options are necessary to learn more. 

Blood testing can give insight into whether a child has diabetes, high cholesterol, and many other chronic health issues. Kids who are overweight or obese have a much higher risk of serious health issues in adulthood than their peers who fall within normal weight ranges for their age. 

The Children’s Clinic offers in-house blood draws, giving parents the chance to take care of their lab testing needs without having to make multiple appointments or run across town. 

What if my child is afraid of having blood drawn?

Many kids are afraid of needles, and having blood drawn is never anyone’s idea of a fun experience. There are ways, however, to reduce anxiety about the process and ensure your child gets the screening needed to guide their health care. The Children’s Clinic can utilize cooling sprays, shot blockers, and vibrating tools above the blood draw site to distract the child from the actual poke itself.

Further, many different children’s books focus on going to the doctor and getting lab testing done. Try to find one written for your child’s age and interests, then read it together. 

It can also be helpful to bring your child in with you the next time you have blood drawn. It’s one thing to assure a little one that there’s nothing to worry about, but watching you go through the process yourself leaves a lasting impression. 

Finally, working with a pediatrician your child knows and trusts makes it easier to weather less pleasant visits. The Children’s Clinic nurses and MAs have TONS of experience with pediatric blood draws, giving them the skills needed to draw blood as comfortably as possible. This is yet another reason to trust the Children’s Clinic with your child’s care! 

If your child needs lab testing, call the office to set up a visit or request an appointment online.