4 things to keep in mind before you leave your sample
1. Fasting for at least 10 hours
Most of our health checks and some markers require the sample to be taken fasting. Fasting means that you are not allowed to eat or drink anything for 10 hours before the test is given, you give your test at 8 in the morning means that you need to have been fasting since 22:00 the day before. It is permissible to drink a glass of water while fasting.
Also read the article about which blood tests require fasting here.
2. Hand in the test before 10 in the morning
As several of our markers have a diurnal variation, it is important that you leave the test before 10:00 in the morning for a correct reading.
3. Rest for 15 minutes
When you are in the reception/testing unit you need to rest for 15 minutes as stress, physical activity or posture can affect your test.
4. Bring valid identification
Bring valid identification with you. Your referral is sent digitally so you do not need to print it out before coming to the sampling unit.
Here you can read more about what applies to fasting samples or analysis of markers with diurnal variation.
Any medicines and supplements
Medicines and supplements can affect your test result, therefore you should take any morning medicine after the test. Any hormone medications may remain in the body for some time after the end of treatment. If you have been treated with antibiotics, you should wait two weeks after your treatment has ended before submitting your sample. Any dietary supplements and vitamins that are taken will mean that the test result you receive will show your values with these in your body.
If you are unsure about what applies to your particular medication, we recommend that you speak to your treating doctor.