laboratory and pathology
Our pediatric laboratory and pathology experts provide accurate, timely results using child-friendly techniques and equipment designed to minimize discomfort—so your child’s care team gets the answers they need, quickly and compassionately.
pediatric expertise and compassionate care
Children aren’t little adults—and our team knows that lab work can be stressful. Our pediatric-trained staff explain each procedure, use equipment designed for small samples, and help ease fears with care tailored to each child’s age and comfort level.
Dayton Children’s laboratory is accredited by the College of American Pathologists, ensuring the highest standards of accuracy, safety, and quality. We provide 24/7 lab support for both inpatient and outpatient needs, from routine blood tests to advanced genetic and molecular testing.
comprehensive testing and diagnostic services
ur full-service lab performs a wide range of diagnostic tests, including:
- Molecular genetics, cytogenetics, and genetic counseling
- Chemistry and hematology/coagulation
- Urinalysis and microbiology
- Virology and serology
- Transfusion services and point-of-care testing
- Pediatric pathology and phlebotomy
Each test is processed with precision and reviewed by pediatric laboratory specialists who understand how results impact your child’s treatment and recovery.
convenience and accessibility
We offer testing at our main hospital and multiple satellite locations across the region, with many options co-located with your clinic visits.
- No appointment needed for most tests (doctor’s order is required).
- Extended weekday and weekend hours to fit your family’s schedule.
- Fast turnaround times ensure your provider receives results quickly.
our laboratory and pathology specialists
Our laboratory and pathology specialists bring expertise and compassion to every child’s care.
services and programs
t Dayton Children’s, our laboratory and child life teams have proudly partnered to become the first of their kind to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from theInternational Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This means we’ve taken extra steps to ensure our care is welcoming and supportive for children with autism and sensory activities.
To help make every visit more comfortable, our staff uses a variety of distraction tools and sensory-friendly equipment designed to ease anxiety and create a more positive experience.
A provider referral is required for lab services. Once you have the referral, please call our child life department at 937-641-3303 Monday through Friday from 8:30 am–4:00 pm to schedule your child’s sensory-friendly lab draw at our main campus.
Before calling, we encourage families to review the options below. This information helps our child life team prepare and provide the best possible experience for your child:
How would you describe your child’s experience with lab draws or needle pokes (such as vaccine shots)?
- No problems
- Cries
- Worries
- Very fearful
- No previous experience
- Other
My child will do best:
- Watching what is happening during their lab draw
- Looking away during the lab draw
- Having staff count to three before the draw
- Not counting to three before the draw
- Sitting on my lap or next to me
- Sitting on or next to a staff member
- Other
news and blogs
Stay up-to-date with the latest insights from Dayton Children’s Hospital. We’re always working to share helpful, real-world content for families navigating laboratory and pathology testing.
patient stories
Laboratory procedures can be scary and stressful for both kids and parents. Hearing from other families the experience they have with our pediatric laboratory and pathology teams can make a big difference. Our patient stories highlight real experiences from parents and kids who’ve faced health challenges and found answers through expert testing and care.
Explore how Dayton Children’s laboratory and pathology care has gone above and beyond for kids just like yours.
for your visit
Most lab test collections take approximately 15 minutes to complete from start to finish. Wait time and registration vary per location and time of day. Most routine tests are processed and completed the same day, while others may take several days to be completely analyzed.
For all visits, please wear comfortable and loose clothing and bring:
- Your insurance information
- Your physician’s order (if you have a hard copy)
- Your driver’s license
- Any required forms from your school, state or outside agency
If your child has sensory needs, learn more about our sensory-friendly lab experience.
fasting labs
If your physician has ordered fasting labs, no food or drink should be consumed for 8 hours before testing. If you are not sure if the order is fasting or not, please contact your provider or call us at 937-641-3358 to confirm the order.
hours & locations – laboratory and pathology
Our laboratory medicine and pathology team is here to support your child’s health at multiple convenient locations.
making labs easier for kids
Our pediatric laboratory team is ready to answer your questions and guide you through your visit. View our locations and hours for our locations with lab and imaging.
