Words (Core Vocabulary)
- symptom / onset / duration / frequency / severity
- trigger / pattern / relieving factors / red flags
- vitals (temperature, blood pressure, heart rate)
- requisition / order (lab or imaging)
- blood test / urine test / swab
- imaging: X-ray / ultrasound / CT / MRI
- fasting / sample collection / specimen label
- walk-in lab / booked appointment / queue
- patient portal / results / normal range / follow-up
Phrases (Report → test → results)
Describing symptoms (clear + concise)
- It started on [date], happens [how often], and feels [quality/severity].
- It gets worse with [trigger] and better with [relief].
- No [important negatives], e.g., no fever, no rash.
Before testing
- Do I need to fast and for how long?
- Is this lab walk-in or by appointment?
- Could you confirm where the requisition was sent?
After testing
- When will results be available, and how will I receive them?
- Could you copy my provider on the results and book a follow-up?
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Visit: I’ve had chest tightness since Monday, off and on, worse with stairs, no chest pain at rest.
- Lab desk: Do I need to fast for 12 hours for this cholesterol test?
- Results: If I don’t see results by Friday, who should I contact?
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Clinical info
- describe onset and duration
- rate severity
- note triggers/relief
- list negative symptoms
Testing logistics
- bring the requisition
- book a lab appointment
- fast for 8–12 hours (if required)
- provide a sample
Results
- access the patient portal
- discuss results with your provider
- schedule a follow-up
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Most labs require a requisition from a provider; bring health card/ID.
- Results often go to the ordering provider; some regions offer patient portals.
- Some tests do not require fasting—ask to confirm.
Urgent symptoms: For severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or stroke signs, call 911.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Symptom frame: “Since Friday, 3–4 times/day, pressure-like headache, worse with screens, no nausea.”
- Prep check: “Do I need to fast or avoid medications before this test?”
- Results plan: “When should I follow up if the results aren’t posted?”