Hemoglobin (Hb) Status Test
This test measures your blood’s hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. It helps doctors assess whether you have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen properly.
["Hemoglobin levels can indicate anemia, polycythemia, or other blood-related conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39226-6
- Short code
- HEMOGLOBINTESTSTATUS
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- cphs
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Hemoglobin Measures
Hemoglobin is the key protein in red blood cells that binds and transports oxygen. Low levels may suggest anemia (not enough red blood cells), while high levels could indicate conditions like polycythemia or dehydration. This test is often part of a routine blood panel or used to diagnose or monitor certain health issues.
Common Reasons for Testing
Doctors may order a hemoglobin test if you have symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, or unexplained weakness. It’s also used during pregnancy, before surgeries, or to check for blood loss from conditions like heavy periods or ulcers.
Sample Collection and Preparation
This test requires a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised for some related blood tests. Your blood is sent to a lab for analysis, and results are typically available within 1–3 business days.
What to Expect Before or After Testing
Before the test: Avoid strenuous activity or heavy meals 12 hours before your appointment. After the test: You may experience mild bruising or soreness at the needle site, which usually fades quickly. If you experience excessive bleeding or pain, contact your provider.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Hemoglobin levels below normal can signal anemia, which may require further evaluation for causes like iron deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, or chronic diseases. Elevated levels may raise concerns about overproduction of red blood cells (e.g., due to lung disease or polycythemia vera). Always discuss results with your healthcare provider, as they’ll interpret them in the context of your overall health.
Short name
Hb Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my hemoglobin is outside the normal range?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy