What to Know When Having Blood Work Done

Blood work is done as part of your annual health exam or to assist in monitoring certain medications or illnesses.

The average healthy person needs their blood work done every 1-3 years. As a person ages, as health problems develop or prescriptions change, blood work may need to be done more often. This is especially true in cases of diabetes or with the use of Coumadin, a medication that helps make the blood less “sticky”. In these situations, the patient is usually asked to come in more often. In most other situations, such as increased bad cholesterol or triglycerides, the blood work really only needs to be checked once every year.

The following is information that might be helpful before you come in for blood work: 

• If you are thirsty, you can and should drink small amounts of water while you are fasting for blood work.
• Fasting means no food or drink (except water) or smoking for 12 – 14 hours prior to having your blood drawn. This also means no gum.
• Most medication can and should be taken prior to having fasting blood work done. The exception would be diabetic medication or medication that must be taken with food. 
• If you are diabetic, you do not necessarily have to have fasting blood work done every time you have your blood drawn. If you are unsure, ask your provider.
• Wear loose clothing especially around the arms. Short sleeves are best.
• Let the provider know if you have ever felt “light headed” or have fainted when having your blood drawn.
• If you cannot get an appointment in the desired time in Temagami, you can take your requisition to another laboratory. This is sometimes helpful if you have plans to be out of town during the timeframe that you want your blood work done.
• Relax – drawing blood is easier when you are relaxed. Sometimes it looks like a large amount of blood is being drawn, but remember each vial contains no more than 1 – 1 1/2 teaspoons

Blood work is an important part of monitoring you health. It usually does not need to be done frequently but it does need to be done. If you haven’t had either your blood work or an annual health exam done within the last few years, contact the Temagami Family Health Team to schedule an appointment.

Preventative Health Care – the Easiest Way to Protect Your Future!