A complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most common blood tests. It measures your red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, plus hemoglobin and hematocrit. At Urgent Care Center of Westmont, also known as Immediate Care Center of Westmont, a provider may order a CBC when you have signs of infection, unusual tiredness, easy bruising or other symptoms, and then explain what the numbers mean.
A blood culture is a different test. It looks for bacteria or fungi in the blood and is used when a serious bloodstream infection is suspected. If you have signs of sepsis, do not wait for an urgent care visit: go to the nearest emergency room.
MedlinePlus explains that a CBC checks the number and size of the cells in your blood. It includes:
Providers use a CBC during checkups and to look for or follow conditions such as infections, anemia and immune disorders. A low red cell count can point to anemia. A high white cell count can suggest infection. Diet, medicines and other factors can affect results, so they are read along with your symptoms and history.
A provider first talks with you and examines you to decide which tests make sense. Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The draw takes only a few minutes, and the most common side effect is a little soreness or a bruise.
A CBC usually needs no special preparation. If other tests are ordered at the same time, you may be asked to fast, so ask us when you check in. Lab testing is available at our clinic; call (630) 324-6825 to confirm which location offers the test you need. Your provider will explain your results and the next steps, which may include follow-up with your primary care doctor.
Blood cultures are ordered for suspected serious infections. MedlinePlus notes that several samples are often drawn, because germs may not be in the blood all the time.
Sepsis is a medical emergency. The CDC lists warning signs such as confusion, shortness of breath, a high heart rate or weak pulse, fever or shivering, feeling very cold, extreme pain, and clammy or sweaty skin. If you notice these, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Also seek emergency care for chest pain or pressure, trouble breathing, signs of a stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking, sudden loss of balance or vision), severe bleeding, fainting or a seizure.
People come to us for lab work from Westmont, IL and towns close by, such as Willowbrook, IL, Oak Brook, IL, Burr Ridge, IL and Woodridge, IL.
You can walk in during open hours or check in online before you arrive. We are open weekdays 9 AM to 6 PM and weekends 9 AM to 5 PM at 29 N Cass Ave, Ste A, and inside Jewel-Osco at 4 E Ogden Ave, both in Westmont, IL 60559.
Most major plans are accepted, including BCBS PPO and HMO plans, Medicare, Meridian, CountyCare and State of Illinois Benefit Plans. Plans change, so call (630) 324-6825 to check your coverage for blood tests. Details are on our insurance and cost page.
If you pay for yourself, our self-pay services page explains our flat, upfront prices. We are happy to go over costs with you first.
Usually not. You may need to fast if other tests, such as a fasting blood sugar, are drawn at the same time. Ask us when you check in.
It can be a sign of infection or inflammation, but other factors can raise it too. Your provider will explain your result in context.
No. A CBC counts blood cells. A blood culture checks for germs growing in the blood and is used when a serious infection is suspected.
Yes. Ask about our self-pay pricing, and we will tell you the cost of the visit and lab work before testing.
Sources: MedlinePlus: Complete Blood Count, MedlinePlus: Blood culture, CDC: About Sepsis.
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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