Mid-Atlantic · BNP Blood Test – Heart Failure Test
BNP Blood Test – Heart Failure Test in Maryland
Below is a plain-language overview of the bnp blood test – heart failure test. A BNP blood test measures a hormone that your heart releases when it is under strain. It is commonly used to help evaluate heart failure.
Lab requirements in Maryland
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the BNP Blood Test – Heart Failure Test in MD. 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
- In most cases, no special preparation is needed for a BNP blood test. Follow the instructions provided by the collection lab or your healthcare provider.
- 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, including MD. 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
The BNP blood test measures levels of B-type natriuretic peptide, a hormone made by the heart. Higher levels can be a sign that the heart is working harder than normal. The test is often used along with a physical exam and other tests to assess heart function.
What it measures
- B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) — reflects the level of this hormone in the blood, which can rise when the heart is under strain
What the test involves
A healthcare professional collects a small sample of blood 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 a BNP test to help find the cause of symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling, or fatigue. It can also be used to check how well treatment for heart failure is working.
Preparation
In most cases, no special preparation is needed for a BNP blood test. Follow the instructions provided by the collection lab or your healthcare provider.
How results are reported
Results are reported as a numeric level of BNP in your blood, along with a reference range from the testing laboratory. Reference ranges can vary between labs, so your results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider.
Before you go
- Whether any medications you take could affect the test
- If fasting or other preparation is required
- How and when you will receive your results
Cities
BNP Blood Test – Heart Failure Test in Maryland communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.