Diagnostic Tests
There are specific tests performed at the Grace Pacific Medical Associates office location for diagnostic purposes, that is, to find out what your medical problem is and how best to treat it. Many of these procedures do not require an appointment, though we ask that you call us so that we may triage you before you drop in. Though appointments are not necessary, if your results are unusual, an appointment with one of our practitioners may result, so please be aware that all time lengths given are approximate.
- Glucose Testing
- Urinalysis
- Blood Pressure Checks
- PPD Tests
- Strep A Test
- Electrocardiograms (EKGs)
- Pap Smears
- Pregnancy Tests
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Glucose Testing
Glucose--also known as "blood sugar"--testing is a quick procedure. It entails a prick of the finger and testing of your blood for sugar levels, and is usually performed by a medical assistant. After we get the results, one of our physicians will come into the exam room to discuss with you the results and further steps that are necessary. This procedure is very commonly performed on diabetic patients. Symptoms for high blood sugar include excessive urination, excessive thirst, blurred vision, and unexplained weight loss. If you suspect you are suffering from high glucose, please contact us.
Length: just a few minutes!
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Urinalysis
The typical Urinalysis (or "UA") is a group of tests performed on a single sample of urine using dipsticks. It is usually performed to diagnose whether a patient has a Urinary Tract Infection (or "UTI"). If we notice anything unusual about your results, a practitioner will come in to discuss it with you and let you know what steps to take. Typical symptoms of UTIs include but are not exclusive to frequent urination or need to urinate, pain or burning sensation while urinating, abdominal discomfort, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, or blood in your urine. If you are experiencing any or all of these symptoms, or if you notice something unusual about your urine, please contact us.
Length: just a few minutes!
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Blood Pressure Check
Blood pressure checks come with any appointment and are usually performed by a medical assistant. High blood pressure, or "hypertension", rarely causes outward symptoms, so it is important to check it routinely. If you are concerned about your blood pressure or have already been diagnosed with hypertension, you do not need to schedule an appointment to have your blood pressure measured. Just give us a call and let us know that you would like to come in. If your blood pressure is high, one of our doctors will come in to discuss with you your results and options. Remember that many things can influence your blood pressure reading, so avoid heavy exercise, caffeine, and stress 30 minutes before your reading, and above all try to stay relaxed!
Length: maxium 15 minutes
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PPD Tests
PPD stands for "Purified Protein Derivative." It is a skin test performed to diagnose exposure to tuberculosis. It entails a small injection into the skin (intradermally). If you have been exposed to tuberculosis, your immune system will respond to the test within 2 to 3 days. The reaction has often been equated to a bug bite with some minor redness and swelling. It is very important that you do not try to evaluate the reaction yourself. You must drop in 2 to 3 days after the test has been administered so that one of our qualified medical assistants can take a look. You don't need an appointment for this. Just drop by anytime during our business hours!
If your test is positive, it does not necessarily mean you have tuberculosis. PPDs are for screening only. You will need a chest x-ray to actually confirm whether you do or do not have tuberculosis, so if you show a reaction, we will send you off to get a chest x-ray and you will never need to do the test again as you will always show a reaction. If you test negative, it is recommended that you repeat the test every 1-2 years.
Length: just a few minutes!
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Strep A Test
At GPMA we offer a test for group A streptococcus bacterium (GAS), a bacteria that often causes infections like strep throat. Symptoms of strep throat include severe sore throat, inflamed tonsils, yellow or white patches in the throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever. If you suspect you have strep throat, please contact our office as it is contagious. The test is painless and only requires that your throat be swabbed. If your results are positive, our physicians will help you treat it.
Length: 10 to 15 minutes
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Electrocardiograms (EKGs)
Electrocardiograms (also known as EKGs) are usually part of an exam. They are performed at a physician's discretion to monitor the electrical activity of your heart and are usually performed by a medical assistant. EKGs are painless but require bare skin, so be prepared to remove or lift your shirt. A report will be acquired on location immediately and your physician will discuss results and whatever steps are necessary with you.
Length: 15 minutes
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Pap Smears
A pap smears is a test that can help detect and prevent cervical cancer. Because it is a screening process that requires an appointment in itself, please see our Office Visits section. Thank you!
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Pregnancy Tests
GPMA offers pregnancy tests. If you are concerned that you are pregnant, you are welcome to come in for a urine test. Like the UA, it only takes a few minutes and an appointment is not required.
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