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Test Preparation Guidelines

Prepare properly for accurate test results

General Guidelines

Timing

Schedule your lab visit at the recommended time for your specific test.

Hydration

Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water before your visit.

Medications

Continue taking prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise.

Fasting

Follow fasting instructions carefully if required for your test.

Test-Specific Preparation

Fasting Tests

Common tests: Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP), Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), Lipid Panel, Glucose (Fasting), Insulin (Fasting)

Preparation Requirements:

  • Fast for 8-12 hours before your test
  • Drink water only (no coffee, tea, or juice)
  • Take medications with water only
  • Schedule morning appointments when possible

Hormone Tests

Common tests: Testosterone, Thyroid Panel (TSH, T3, T4), Cortisol, DHEA

Preparation Requirements:

  • Schedule test for early morning (7-9 AM) when hormone levels are most stable
  • Avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours before
  • Get adequate sleep the night before
  • Some tests may require fasting - check specific test details

Vitamin & Mineral Tests

Common tests: Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Iron & Ferritin, Magnesium

Preparation Requirements:

  • No special preparation usually required
  • Avoid supplements 24 hours before test
  • Morning or afternoon appointments are fine
  • Stay hydrated

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Common tests: CBC, CBC with Differential

Preparation Requirements:

  • No fasting required
  • Can be done any time of day
  • Stay well-hydrated
  • Wear short sleeves or easily rolled-up sleeves

What to Bring to Your Lab Visit

  • Lab requisition form (emailed after purchase)
  • Valid government-issued photo ID
  • Insurance card (if applicable)
  • List of current medications (recommended)

Tips for a Successful Lab Visit

Before Your Visit:

  • • Review your test requirements
  • • Print or save your requisition form
  • • Verify lab hours and location
  • • Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing

During Your Visit:

  • • Arrive relaxed and well-hydrated
  • • Inform staff of any allergies
  • • Mention if you've had issues with blood draws before
  • • Ask questions if you're unsure about anything

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