Blood work allows a medical professional to take a close look at how your body is reacting to medications, vitamin and mineral content, and to monitor other aspects of your health. You’ll need to properly prepare for the procedure to ensure the most accurate results, so follow these tips.

How to Get Ready for Blood Work

1. Eat Accordingly

For blood glucose tests, cholesterol tests, and general metabolic tests, you may be required to fast before your blood is drawn. Fasting gives medical professionals a baseline example of these levels that isn’t influenced by food or beverages. Plan on fasting eight to 12 hours beforehand. To make it easier, schedule your blood work early in the morning so most of the fasting will be done while you’re asleep.

2. Make Sure Lab Work Has Been Sent

If you’re getting blood work done outside of your doctor’s office, make sure the lab order has been transferred to the outside facility at least 24 hours before your appointment. Without these guidelines, the facility won’t know which blood test to administer. Call and confirm that it was received; if not, speak with your physician right away so the correct order can be sent over.

3. Take Medications as Advised

If your doctor wants to see how your body is responding to a new medication, adhere to their guidelines. Every patient is unique, but on average, you should take the medication daily for at least 14 to 21 days for the lab to properly test its efficacy. If you’re discontinuing a medication, don’t schedule blood work until 10 to 14 days after quitting the medication. If your doctor doesn’t provide specifics, ask just to make sure.

If you need blood work done, turn to Kona-Kohala Health Care Services. Serving Kailua-Kona, HI, Dr. Donald Nikaitani and Dr. Richard Pekala offer general internal medicine services at their health clinic, which you can explore online, and their staff takes every step to ensure their patients are comfortable. Call (808) 329-1346 today to schedule an appointment.