Test Preparation

Test Preparation

Complete guide to prepare for your medical tests

General Guidelines

Proper preparation ensures reliable results. Here are the essential instructions to follow before your tests.

Fasting

10-12 hours before collection for fasting tests

Hydration

Drink plain water to facilitate blood collection

Rest

Avoid intense physical activity the day before

Documents

Bring your prescription and ID card

Preparation by Test Type

Fasting Blood Tests

Tests: Blood glucose, lipid panel, liver function, kidney function

Instructions:

  • Fast for 10 to 12 hours before collection
  • Drink plain water (no juice, tea, or coffee)
  • Avoid alcohol 24 hours before
  • Take your regular medications unless told otherwise
  • Come preferably in the morning between 7:30-10:00 AM
Tip: Have a light dinner the night before (avoid fatty meals)

Urinalysis

Tests: Urine culture, proteinuria, microalbuminuria

Instructions:

  • Collect midstream urine
  • Perform genital cleaning before collection
  • Use the sterile container provided by the lab
  • Preferably first morning urine
  • Bring the sample within 2 hours
Important: Do not collect urine during menstruation

Hormone Tests

Tests: TSH, T3, T4, FSH, LH, Estradiol, Prolactin

Instructions:

  • Prolactin: Rest 20 min before collection
  • FSH/LH/Estradiol: Specify the day of your cycle
  • Cortisol: Collection between 7-9 AM
  • Avoid stress before collection
  • Report any ongoing hormone treatment
Women: Some hormones must be tested at specific times in your cycle

Lipid Panel

Tests: Total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, Triglycerides

Instructions:

  • Strict 12-hour fast (water allowed)
  • Avoid alcohol 48 hours before
  • Avoid fatty meals the night before
  • Maintain your usual diet the days before
  • Continue your medications unless advised otherwise
Warning: Alcohol significantly affects triglyceride levels

Glucose & Diabetes

Tests: Fasting glucose, HbA1c, Glucose tolerance test

Instructions:

  • Fasting glucose: Fast 8-12 hours
  • HbA1c: No fasting required
  • GTT: Normal diet 3 days before, then fast 10-12h
  • Don't take diabetic medications before the test
  • Bring your medication to take after
Diabetics: Don't take insulin or diabetes medication before the test

Serology & Infections

Tests: Hepatitis B/C, HIV, Rubella, Toxoplasmosis

Instructions:

  • Generally no fasting required
  • Report any recent vaccinations (< 3 months)
  • Report any immunosuppressive treatment
  • Bring previous results if available
  • Consent required for HIV testing
Note: All results are strictly confidential

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, absolutely! Plain water is not only allowed but recommended. Good hydration makes blood collection easier. However, avoid coffee, tea, fruit juices, and sugary drinks.

Generally, continue your regular treatments. However, some medications may interfere with certain tests. Inform us of all your current treatments. If in doubt, consult your doctor.

It's best not to smoke on the morning of your test. Smoking can alter certain blood parameters and affect the results of some tests.

Don't hesitate to tell us! Our team is trained to help you. You can lie down during the blood draw, and we use techniques to minimize discomfort. Stay calm and breathe deeply.

  • Your medical prescription
  • Your national ID card
  • Your insurance card (CNOPS, CNSS, or private insurance)
  • Your previous results if you have ongoing follow-up

Questions About Your Preparation?

Our team is available to advise you on the right preparation for your tests.

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