Patient Preparation Instructions for Common Laboratory Tests

1. Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS)

• Fast for 8–10 hours before the test.
• Water is allowed during the fasting period.
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during the fasting period.
• Do not take any medications unless prescribed by your doctor.

Timing: The test is typically done in the morning to ensure accurate results.

2. Lipid Profile

• Fast for 10–12 hours before the test.
• Only water is allowed during the fasting period.
• Avoid eating or drinking other beverages, including coffee or tea, during the fasting period.
• For both FBS and lipid profile – fasting 12 hours is required.

Note: Inform the lab staff if you are on medication for cholesterol or any other related treatments.

3. Urine Culture

• Clean the genital area thoroughly before collecting the sample to avoid contamination.
• Collect the midstream urine (first part of the urine stream should be discarded, then collect the sample).
• Ensure that the urine sample is delivered to the lab within 2 hours of collection for optimal results.

Timing: Ideally collected in the morning for better bacterial growth.

4. 24-Hour Urine Collection

• Start the collection in the morning, discarding the first urine of the day.
• Collect all urine for 24 hours, including the final urine of the next morning.
• Store the urine sample in a cool place (refrigerated if necessary).
• Make sure to record the exact start and end times of the collection period.
• Bring the collected urine sample to the lab within 24 hours.

Note: Ensure that no urine is missed during the 24-hour collection period.

5. Hormone Tests

• Fasting may not be required for all hormone tests, but confirm with your doctor whether fasting is necessary.
• Timing: Some hormone tests, like thyroid or cortisol, require a specific time of day for accurate results (e.g., cortisol tests are often done in the early morning).
• Medication: Inform the lab if you are on any medications, as certain drugs can interfere with hormone levels.