The experience of getting bloodwork can be stressful for many people.
Taking a few simple steps before and during a blood draw may make you feel more comfortable.
1. Start hydrating at least 24 to 48 hours in advance.
For little ones under the age of 1, we recommend continued feeding for hydration. If water has been introduced, we suggest that water is pushed in these situations as an alternative to juices or sugary beverages.
For patients older than 1, we recommend water as a primary source of hydration but alternatives such as gatorade, pedialyte, or any other electrolyte packed beverages work.
2. Find a nice calm place to get your labs done.
In comparison to a traditional lab environment, you can choose where you’d like to be drawn. We have patients that want to get drawn by the pool, in their bedroom, and from within your car. You can literally be drawn anywhere!
3. Provide a distraction.
Blood draws are stressful when people fixate on them. In order to get your mind off of them or your child’s mind off of them, have a distraction available. It can be singing a song they like, watching their favorite TV show, or just an interaction with a 3rd party during the draw.
4. For kiddos, have a reward available.
Have something that your child can look forward to after the draw. It can be additional time watching TV or playing a game, a trip to the park, or a small treat such as a lollipop. Any of these rewards gives the child something to look forward to but it doesn’t mean you have to go out to spend money on a gift, it can be anything of value to your child.
Items we suggest for prepping for blood draws.
We also have downloadable creative coloring corner to help you ease your mind during or before your blood draw.
For FASTING REQUEST Follow these fasting instructions:
For blood tests, do not eat or drink for 8+ hours before visiting the laboratory
For lipid tests, do not eat or drink for 12 hours before visiting the laboratory
It is okay to drink water, but not coffee, juice or tea
Do not smoke during the fasting period
Do not exercise during the fasting period, as this can affect the results
Avoid chewing gum, which can affect your test results
After the test is over, you are free to resume your normal routine
When to Start Fasting
The Salinas Valley Health Clinics laboratory hours are 6:30am to 3:00pm Monday through Friday. Many people begin fasting the night before so they can sleep through the fasting period. Because of this, the hours between 7:00am~9:30am.
