Key points
- You need a test prescription.
- Some tests require fasting — we'll tell you.
- The nurse takes the samples to the lab.
For an elderly person, a bed-bound patient or simply to skip the queue, a blood test at home is practical and safe.
Before the visit
- Keep the test prescription to hand.
- Check whether fasting is needed (often 8 to 12 hours for glucose or cholesterol).
- Take your usual medicines unless your doctor says otherwise.
- Drink a glass of water — veins are easier to find.
During and after
The nurse checks the patient's identity, takes the sample hygienically and labels the tubes, then delivers them to the lab, which sends you the results.
On blood thinners? Tell the nurse — pressing on the spot a little longer is usually enough.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast for a blood test?
Not always. It's needed for some tests (glucose, cholesterol). We'll tell you based on your prescription.
Reviewed by the Doctor Darna medical team
This article is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. In a life-threatening emergency, call 14.
