Blood work is a good resource for doctors studying their patients’ conditions and progress with treatment. However, numerous factors can impact the results of these tests, forcing patients to get the same blood work again. At TOPLAB®, we conduct routine blood tests for patients nationwide using state-of-the-art technology. Here, we discuss what items people must bring to the lab to ensure their blood work proceeds smoothly.
Essential Items for Any Blood Test
Since doctors use blood work to screen for various health issues, not all tests are administered the same way. Some blood tests require more intensive preparation, while others may involve little to no prior effort. Regardless of the specific blood work patients receive, there are general steps they can take to get ready for the test. The following items are crucial for any patient who wishes to obtain accurate blood work results:
Lab Order
The doctor’s lab order gives clear directions for what types of tests the patient needs. The lab may attain an order from the physician’s office electronically, but the patient should also understand what tests they are receiving. A lab order can reassure patients if they have concerns about getting blood work.
Insurance Card
Although some blood work comes without a charge, more uncommon tests may require co-pay. Therefore, patients should always bring their insurance cards to the lab. If they have any questions about coverage, they can call the insurance company before their appointment to understand their financial responsibility for the test. Some doctor’s offices and labs offer financial assistance programs to help patients pay for blood work if they do not have adequate coverage. Since there may be a co-pay charge, patients also should have a method of payment with them.
Water
Drinking water before a blood test keeps the patient hydrated and helps the procedure go smoothly. Water makes veins appear more pronounced, enabling phlebotomists to find a location for extracting blood quickly. Patients who faint during blood tests also should drink plenty of water because it keeps their blood pressure stable.
Snacks
Patients who must fast before their test should bring a snack with them to eat immediately following the test, as it stabilizes their blood sugar and prevents lightheadedness. Some of the best snack options are fruit, nuts, granola bars, and cookies.
If receiving a non-fasting blood test, the patient should eat a meal one or two hours beforehand to avoid experiencing dizziness at the lab. However, fatty foods and alcohol can obstruct the results of blood work. Protein-rich meals are the ideal choice for those getting a blood test.
List of Prescription Drugs
The types of medications a patient takes also can impact the quality of their test results. Therefore, people should bring a list of their prescriptions, vitamins, and supplements to the lab for their appointment. This information will help the phlebotomist decide what direction to take during the test. Some medications that can affect blood work include:
- Antidepressants
- Blood thinners
- Beta-blockers
- Antibiotics
- Steroids
Attain Routine Blood Work From TOPLAB®
Gathering the correct items before a test will simplify the process, but the lab also must strive to make patients comfortable when getting blood work. At TOPLAB®, we use the most updated screening devices to deliver reliable results on multiple blood tests, from allergy tests to complete blood counts. Additionally, our small size enables us to respond to doctors and patients about test outcomes quickly. Contact us today to learn more about how we provide routine blood work to patients in NJ and nationwide.