Before Taking a Sample
Many factors prior to the sample collection affect the results of laboratory tests. Usually laboratory samples are collected from the blood, but urine and stool samples may also be collected to determine a health condition. We have compiled some general guidelines on preparing for a test or for self-collection of urine and stool samples. You will be given more detailed and final instructions by your own healthcare institution.
In this Section:
Fasting Before a Blood Test
Time of Day, Alcohol, Tobacco, Medications or Bodily Exertion
Self-collected Urine and Stool Samples
Preparing for a Throat Swab
Arriving at the Laboratory
Fasting Before a Blood Test
For some laboratory tests it is still necessary to fast. During the fast you may not eat or drink anything besides water. The fast should begin at least 10 hours before the sample collection and last until until the sample has been collected. Depending on your age and health condition the fast can also be shorter.
If a fast is not necessary, you can eat a light meal before the sample collection. You should still avoid having a heavier meal for 4 hours before the sample collection.
Time of Day, Alcohol, Tobacco, Medications or Physical Exertion
For 24 hours before a blood sample avoid alcohol, strenuous physical exertion, as well as nutritional and vitamin supplements. From the previous evening onward avoid also smoking and drinking coffee, tea or refreshments.
You may take medications prescribed by a doctor. You may take your medications normally on the morning of the sample collection unless your doctor advises you otherwise.
Please observe that the results of certain tests vary depending on the time of day. For instance, samples of thyrotropin (TSH), which regulates cortisol and the function of the thyroid gland, are generally collected in the morning.
Self-Collected Urine and Stool Samples
You will receive the tools and instructions you need from your own healthcare institution or laboratory closest to you.
Self-collected samples must not be put in your own containers or jars!
Before taking a sample, the urine should have been in the bladder for a minimum of 4 hours. Before taking a morning urine sample it is usually recommended not to eat during the night and to only drink a glass of water
Arriving at the Laboratory
Arrive in good time for your sample collection – it is advisable to sit still for around 15 minutes before your blood test, so that the blood circulation can stabilise.
Take with you your KELA card or equivalent identification card as well as any potential papers you have been given regarding your tests (e.g. sample stickers, your laboratory test referral, invitation letter and written instructions for your laboratory test).