What to Expect During Your First Blood Draw Appointment

Lavonia Bearfield
Aug 26
2 min read

Walking in for your first blood draw can feel unfamiliar—but it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or confusing. At Angel’s Touch Lab Solutions in South Orange, NJ, we keep the process simple, gentle, and efficient so you leave confident about your next steps. Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you prepare and know exactly what to expect—before, during, and after your visit.

Before Your Appointment: Simple Prep that Makes a Big Difference

Confirm fasting instructions (if any). Not every test requires fasting. If yours does, it’s typically 8–12 hours of no food or drink except water—which is encouraged. Plain water keeps veins hydrated and easier to access. Skip flavored or sparkling waters until after your test.
Hydrate and skip nicotine beforehand. Good hydration improves blood flow; nicotine can constrict veins and make the draw tougher.
Dress for access. Short sleeves or sleeves that roll up easily make things smoother.
Bring the basics. Photo ID, insurance card (if applicable), and your lab order.
Tell us what we should know. If you’ve fainted before, feel nervous around needles, or take blood thinners, let your phlebotomist know—we’ll take extra care and position you comfortably.

When You Arrive: Check-In & Comfort First

You’ll check in at our Patient Service Center (177 Valley St, South Orange, NJ 07079) and review your test order with our team. We’ll answer quick questions, confirm any fasting, and make sure you’re seated comfortably for the draw.

During the Draw: Quick, Clean, and Professional

Tourniquet & site cleanse. We’ll place a soft tourniquet around your upper arm to help locate a vein and clean the area with antiseptic.
A tiny pinch. A sterile needle is inserted—the actual collection usually takes just a couple of minutes. You may feel brief pressure or a quick sting. Multiple tubes may be filled depending on your ordered tests.
That’s it. The needle comes out, we apply pressure and a small bandage, and you’re done.

After the Draw: Easy Aftercare

Hold pressure 2–3 minutes and keep the bandage on for a few hours.
Take it easy with that arm for the rest of the day; avoid heavy lifting.
Stay hydrated and have a light snack if you were fasting.
Mild bruising can happen—a cold compress for short intervals within 24 hours can help. If you feel lightheaded, sit or lie down until it passes.

How Results Work

Your specimens are routed to appropriate laboratories for analysis. We have access to specialty labs (e.g., LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics, Boston Heart, Genova, Spectracell, and others) when advanced testing is needed. Turnaround times vary by test; our team will let you know what to expect for yours.

Ready When You Are

Whether it’s your first draw or your fiftieth, our goal is a calm, quick, and compassionate experience with accurate results. Book your appointment or call (862) 621-7984. We’re here for you at 177 Valley St, South Orange, NJ 07079.