One of the most important factors determining the accuracy and reliability of laboratory tests is you. Proper preparation is essential, to ensure the quality of your test results! Below, please find information you need to know prior to your tests.
The definition of fasting abstinence from food refers to a state of not eating food or drinking liquids for a period of about 12 hours. Only non-carbonated still water should be drunk before blood is drawn for the laboratory tests. It is recommended to avoid drinking coffee and tea, or consuming chewing gum. Certain substances can interfere with the glucose test results. Caffeine increases your blood sugar levels. This can lead to too low blood sugar levels, and even an increase in ketone bodies, as well as low iron and haemoglobin levels.
Interference of biotin with the laboratory test results. As biotin interferes with many laboratory tests, the patient should discontinue the consumption of biotin multivitamins or supplements containing biotin or "Vitamin B7" for 48 hours or more before the laboratory test, to minimise interference with the test. Biotin interferes with the following tests:. There are also certain requirements that need to be met before a glucose tolerance test:.
If you plan to collect a urine sample for laboratory tests, we recommend using a disposable urine container. The urine is collected in a special disposable container, which is available at the pharmacy. The disposable urine container does not need to be washed or otherwise prepared.
For babies and young children, a urine sample can be collected using urine collection bags. NOTE: Please note that for microbiological tests urine culture , the container must be sterile and kept in a sealed container. NOTE: It is unacceptable to urinate in bottles, jars and other containers not intended for this purpose.
