Clinical self-tests
Clinical self-tests at Farmacia Ciacco allow you to check important blood parameters with a capillary sample from a fingertip — the same technique used for blood glucose monitoring — with results in a few minutes. The service is suitable for quick monitoring between appointments, periodic checks for those on therapy (e.g. for cholesterol or anticoagulants) and for those who cannot tolerate conventional venous blood draws.
Available tests include: blood glucose, total and HDL/LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), creatinine, uric acid, PT/INR, thyroid profile and other parameters. Self-tests do not replace full laboratory tests, but are a useful monitoring tool, always to be shared with your GP.
Frequently asked questions
Which parameters can I check?
The most commonly requested tests are: blood glucose, total cholesterol and HDL/LDL fractions, triglycerides, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), creatinine, uric acid, PT/INR for those on anticoagulants, thyroid profile and other parameters included in the service. The availability of some tests may vary by day: it is worth calling ahead to confirm.
Is fasting required?
It depends on the test. For blood glucose, lipid profile (cholesterol, triglycerides) and uric acid, a fast of at least 8–12 hours is recommended, drinking only water. For glycated haemoglobin, PT/INR, creatinine and thyroid profile, fasting is not required. It is always worth calling before you come for precise instructions about the test requested.
How is the sample taken?
The sample is capillary, from a fingertip, using a small disposable lancet. It is painless and uses the same technique as blood glucose monitoring. It is also suitable for those who are afraid of conventional venous blood draws.
How quickly do I get the result?
The result is available in a few minutes, directly at the pharmacy. A paper report is provided that you can take to your GP for clinical evaluation.
Do self-tests replace laboratory blood tests?
No: capillary self-testing is a rapid monitoring tool, useful for periodic checks between appointments or when a quick check is needed. For diagnosis and full assessments, laboratory blood tests from a venous sample remain the reference standard, on medical prescription.
