How to Prepare for a Blood Draw to Get Accurate Results

Lavonia Bearfield
Nov 25
3 min read

Getting blood work done is an important part of staying on top of your health. Whether it’s a routine checkup, a doctor-ordered test, or part of ongoing monitoring, how you prepare can make a big difference in the accuracy of your results and the comfort of your experience.

At Angel’s Touch Lab Solutions, we’re committed to making every appointment smooth, stress-free, and efficient. Here’s what you need to know before your next blood draw.

1. Confirm Whether You Need to Fast

Not all tests require fasting, but for those that do, it’s crucial.

Fasting means:⏱️ No food or drinks (except water) for 8–12 hours before your appointment.

Fasting may be required for tests such as:

Glucose tests
Lipid panels
Certain metabolic panels

If you’re unsure, always ask your healthcare provider—or call us and we can help clarify based on the test ordered.

2. Stay Hydrated

Water is your best friend before a blood draw. Being well-hydrated helps:

Make veins easier to locate
Speed up your appointment
Reduce discomfort

Tip: Drink water as usual the day before and have a glass or two the morning of your test.

Avoid dehydrating drinks like coffee, tea, and alcohol beforehand—especially if fasting is required.

3. Take Medications as Directed

Most medications can be taken as usual, but some may interfere with results. Before your appointment:

Follow your doctor’s instructions
Ask whether to pause any supplements
Bring a list of medications if you’re unsure

For fasting tests, some medications should not be taken on an empty stomach—always double-check.

4. Wear Clothing That Gives Easy Access to Your Arm

Choose a short-sleeved shirt or something with loose sleeves that can be rolled up comfortably.

This makes your appointment faster and helps the phlebotomist easily access the vein.

5. Avoid Strenuous Exercise Before Your Test

Heavy workouts can temporarily change levels of enzymes, electrolytes, hormones, and other biomarkers. To avoid misleading results:

Skip the gym the morning of your appointment
Avoid high-intensity exercise the night before

A regular, light routine is fine—just avoid intense physical stress.

6. Stay Relaxed and Breathe Normally

Feeling anxious is common, especially if you don’t like needles. Staying calm can make the process smoother.

Try:

Taking slow, deep breaths
Looking away if needles make you uncomfortable
Listening to calming music before your appointment

Let your phlebotomist know if you're nervous—they’ll guide you through every step.

7. Bring a Snack for After Your Test

If you’ve been fasting, it’s normal to feel hungry or slightly lightheaded afterward. Bring:

Crackers
Fruit
A granola bar
Juice or water

We’ll let you know when it’s safe to eat again—usually right away after the draw.

8. Know What to Expect After the Blood Draw

You may experience slight tenderness or a small bruise at the site—this is normal and usually fades quickly.

To help with healing:

Keep the bandage on for at least an hour
Avoid lifting heavy objects with that arm
Apply gentle pressure if slight bleeding occurs

The Bottom Line

Preparing properly for your blood draw helps ensure accurate results, reduces discomfort, and makes the entire process quicker and more comfortable.

At Angel’s Touch Lab Solutions in South Orange, NJ, our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step of your testing process—from preparation to results.

Ready for Your Next Blood Test?

We offer convenient, professional, and patient-focused lab services including blood draws, specialty testing, drug and alcohol testing, DNA testing, and more.

📍 Serving patients in and around South Orange, New Jersey

📞 (862) 621-7984

🌐 Schedule online at Angel’s Touch Lab Solutions