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Laboratory Services
CHOC Laboratory Services is one of the only dedicated pediatric labs in Southern California.
Conveniently located on the lower level of the Bill Holmes Tower, right off the elevator, the 20,000 square foot lab is dedicated to offering the most compassionate blood draw experience possible while providing physicians with quick, accurate results and around-the-clock service for our inpatients and children visiting our Emergency Department.
Understanding the needs of children
At CHOC, we specialize in providing children with the most pleasant experience possible—even when it comes to having blood drawn. All of our phlebotomists (people specially trained to draw blood) have at least two years of experience working with children before coming to CHOC and receive very special training upon being hired to work with our patients.
State-of-the-art clinical laboratory
At CHOC, we pride ourselves on processing blood, urine and stool tests as quickly and efficiently as possible using the very latest equipment and expert staff. Physicians connected to our computer network are often able to get routine results within 60 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is every patient and caregiver’s right to know why a certain test has been ordered, so never hesitate to ask the doctor or staff about the reason for a test.
- Complete blood count, also called a CBC
- Blood chemistry tests
- Blood enzyme tests
- Blood tests for heart disease risk
- A favorite stuffed animal, doll or blanket can be very soothing before, during and after the blood draw for children—not just babies and toddlers.
- Pacifier, if the child uses one.
- Bottle, sippy cup, water bottle or juice box to drink for before and after the procedure. Children who have been asked to fast may drink AFTER the blood draw only.
- Toys with buttons and/or lights may be a useful distraction for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Small toys like cars, dolls and action figures can be useful distractions for some school-aged children.
- An MP3 player with favorite music may be helpful for older children.
- Provide only the truth, as honest explanations about the test are best.
- If possible, choose a quiet time to discuss the test. This is not always easy because tests are often performed hours or even just minutes after a doctor’s appointment.
- Always use a calm, reassuring voice.
- Caregivers must choose their words carefully to prevent misunderstanding and extra stress.
- Give baby 1/8 tsp of salt 2 days prior and morning of testing (3 days total)
- Use only a clear water bath. NO lotion, soaps, bubbles, shampoos, and oils the night prior and the morning of testing
- Breast or bottle feed baby 3 hour prior to scheduled test
Directions and Contact Information
CHOC Laboratory Services
We are located on the lower level of the CHOC Hospital Bill Holmes Tower, just outside the elevators. After parking in the structure next to the hospital, patients must check in at the main reception area in the lobby of the hospital with the lab request from the child’s physician.
Hours
Our hours of operation have changed. At this time, please call 714-509-3132 to get the most current hours of operation.
Get printable maps of our campus in English or Spanish.
1201 W. La Veta | Orange, CA 92868
714-509-3132 | FAX: 855-202-0879 (lab orders)