Pacific · Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test
Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test in California
This page explains the carbon monoxide, blood test, what it measures, and how to order it. A carbon monoxide blood test measures the amount of carbon monoxide bound to hemoglobin in your blood, helping assess exposure to this colorless gas.
Lab requirements in California
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test in CA. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Some tests require fasting or avoiding certain foods or drinks beforehand. You will be informed when you order — confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Preparation
- Specific preparation steps can vary, so follow the instructions provided by the collection lab. In general, no special preparation is needed, but always confirm with the lab before your…
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This test detects carboxyhemoglobin, a form of hemoglobin that carries carbon monoxide instead of oxygen. It is used to evaluate possible carbon monoxide exposure from sources like smoke, vehicle exhaust, or faulty heating equipment.
What it measures
- Carboxyhemoglobin — Reflects the percentage of hemoglobin bound to carbon monoxide.
What the test involves
A healthcare professional collects a small blood sample, usually from a vein in your arm, using a standard blood draw. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order this test when someone has symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or confusion that could be related to carbon monoxide exposure. It can also be used to monitor people who work with or around potential sources of the gas.
Preparation
Specific preparation steps can vary, so follow the instructions provided by the collection lab. In general, no special preparation is needed, but always confirm with the lab before your visit.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as a percentage of hemoglobin bound to carbon monoxide, and reference ranges differ between laboratories. Your clinician will interpret your result in the context of your symptoms and exposure history.
Before you go
- Whether any special preparation is needed before your blood draw
- The lab's hours and whether an appointment is required
- How and when your results will be shared with you
Cities
Carbon Monoxide, Blood Test in California communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.