At Prima Medicine, Dr. Chethana Rao and her experienced medical team use complete blood count testing as a fundamental tool for maintaining your health and diagnosing potential concerns. As a state-of-the-art primary care practice serving Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, Virginia, we provide comprehensive diagnostic testing with same-day and next-day appointments available to meet your healthcare needs promptly.
What Is a Complete Blood Count?
A complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most common and valuable blood tests in medicine. This simple test measures the different types of cells in your blood and provides essential information about your overall health.
A CBC evaluates red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout your body, white blood cells that fight infection, and platelets that help your blood clot. It also measures hemoglobin levels and hematocrit, which is the ratio of red blood cells to plasma in your bloodstream.
Why Your Doctor May Order a CBC
Your physician may recommend a complete blood count for several important reasons:
- Routine health screening: During annual physical examinations to confirm good health and establish baseline values for future comparison
- Diagnosing anemia: To identify low red blood cell counts that cause fatigue and weakness
- Detecting infections: To evaluate elevated white blood cell counts that indicate your body is fighting an infection
- Monitoring blood disorders: To assess blood clotting problems or platelet abnormalities
- Evaluating immune system function: To identify immune system problems or weakened defenses
- Screening for blood cancers: To detect conditions such as leukemia or other blood-related cancers
- Investigating unexplained symptoms: When you experience persistent fatigue, weakness, fever, bruising, or unusual bleeding
- Managing chronic conditions: To monitor ongoing treatment for diabetes, high blood pressure, or other health concerns
What to Expect During the Test
A complete blood count requires only a small blood sample collected through a quick and simple procedure called venipuncture.
A trained medical professional will clean a small area on your arm, typically near the inside of your elbow, and insert a thin needle into a vein to collect blood into one or more tubes. The entire process takes just a few minutes and causes minimal discomfort.
No special preparation is usually needed, though you should inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as some can affect your results.
Why Choose Prima Medicine?
Under the leadership of Dr. Chethana Rao, recognized as Washingtonian magazine’s 2018 Top Doc, Prima Medicine delivers exceptional primary care with a patient-centered approach. As part of Privia Medical Group, a nationally recognized physician-directed medical group, we combine advanced diagnostic capabilities with compassionate, unhurried care.
Our well-trained medical staff takes the time to explain your test results thoroughly and answer all your questions. We understand that health concerns don’t always arise during business hours, which is why we offer flexible scheduling including same-day, next-day, and weekend appointments. Our number one priority is helping you maintain optimal health throughout your lifetime through proactive, coordinated care.
Schedule Your Complete Blood Count Test Today
If you need a complete blood count test or have questions about this important diagnostic tool, contact Prima Medicine today. Dr. Rao and our compassionate medical team are ready to provide the exceptional care you deserve at our convenient locations in Fairfax, South Riding, Merrifield, and Tysons, Virginia. Call (703) 870-3750 or book an appointment online.
