Eight Things to do Before Your Blood Test

If your healthcare provider ordered a blood test, but you aren’t sure how to prepare, our experts on diagnostic specialty kits are here to help. Blood draws are essential to analyze how well your critical organs function and diagnose medical disorders. This post will look at what you need to do before a blood test to be well prepared.

Ask Your Physician for Instructions

Many blood tests demand distinct routines. Ask your doctor for detailed instructions. You do not want to come in for your blood test without adequate preparation.

Speak to Your Physician About Current Medications

If you are on medicines, examine them with your primary doctor. Certain drugs can change blood tests, leading to an inaccurate diagnosis. Instead, confirm that you review all medications with your physician, from blood thinners and alcohol intake to antidepressants and over-the-counter medicines. This practice helps you avoid changing the blood test and saves you from potential health complications during the blood draw.

Ask if You Need to Fast or Not

Having blood work completed occasionally demands fasting. For example, if you are testing for blood glucose levels, bypass eating and drinking for at least eight to ten hours before the blood draw. Eating interferes with the glucose level present in your blood. If your physician requests a fasting blood test, never eat or drink for the period directed by your physician until the test is complete.

Plan Your Blood Tests Early in Your Day

If you need a fasting blood test, plan it as early as possible. Your hours spent resting are included in the fasting period, and having the blood test before breakfast will be fine.

Make Sure the Lab is Certified

Before scheduling your blood test, ensure the laboratory has all the medical supplies required to take the test smoothly. Also, ensure the phlebotomist has the appropriate training and is licensed.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

If you are unsure whether your blood test is critical for analyzing a medical condition, research whether your health insurance helps you cover the costs. Otherwise, you can contact your insurance company to see if there is any wiggle room. Luckily, some laboratories offer a self-pay discount if you settle upfront.

Drink Water

Before your blood draw, you need to drink plenty of water. Unfortunately, most people mistakenly don’t drink water before their blood test because they worry it may complicate the procedure. That presumption is incorrect unless your provider requested a fasting blood test. In all other circumstances, it is medically recommended to be adequately hydrated before your blood test to guarantee the blood draw goes smoothly. Consuming plenty of water improves the water concentration in your blood, hydrating you and making your veins plumper and more effortless to find.

Warm Your Extremities

It is essential to warm up the extremity from which the lab will draw blood. Most doctors do this before conducting a blood test to improve blood flow to the site and keep your veins palpable. You can do it by using a warm compress on the site for ten to 20 minutes. In addition, wearing warm clothes before heading for your blood test increases your skin temperature. It encourages blood flow to all your extremities, making it straightforward for the lab tech to find your veins.

Contact us today if your lab needs diagnostic specialty kits. We are here for you!