For Our Patients

Preparing for Your Blood Draw

Appointments are not needed unless your order includes a 3 Hour Glucose Tolerance Test.

To schedule an appointment for a 3 Hour Glucose Tolerance Test please call one of the locations listed below that is most convenient.

How can I prepare for a blood draw?

  • Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! Drink plenty of water before your visit, hydrated veins are easier to find.
  • If you are told to FAST follow these rules:
    • Do not eat or drink (other than water) for 8-12 hours before having your blood drawn.
    • Do not smoke.
    • Do not chew gum (even sugarless).
    • Continue to take any medications prescribed unless directed otherwise by your doctor.

What to bring with you

  • The completed Order Form
  • Any papers your doctor tells you to bring
  • Your insurance card
  • Identification

How can I prepare my child for a blood draw?

  • Let your child know they will have their blood drawn. Most children do not understand “lab test” and are surprised when they find out they need to have blood collected.
  • Allow plenty of time to get to the outpatient area. If you are tense or hurried, your child will reflect your emotions.
  • Do not tell your child there will only be one stick. Phlebotomists will make every effort to obtain adequate samples with one collection, but sometimes a second collection is required to get enough blood.
  • Do not tell your child it won’t hurt. It is important to be honest and tell your child it will feel like a pinch.
  • Veins are less prominent if your child is dehydrated so offer your child plenty of fluids prior to arrival.
  • Get your child involved in decision-making. They can choose to sit in your lap or bring a favorite stuffed animal or toy if they wish.

Locations

Apex Healthplex

Phone: 919-350-4325 Fax: 919-363-3315

7:30am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday

Get Directions

Brier Creek Healthplex

Phone: 919-350-9623 Fax: 919-598-0083

7:30 am – 5:30 pm, Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 3:30 pm, Friday

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Garner Healthplex

Phone: 919-350-9680 Fax: 919-661-8413

7:30 am – 5:30 pm, Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 3:30 pm, Friday

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North Physicians Office Pavilion

Phone: 919-350-1413 Fax: 919-350-1439

7:30 am – 5:30 pm, Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 3:30 pm, Friday

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Medical Park of Cary

Phone: (919) 350-6022

7:30 am – 5:30 pm, Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 3:30 pm, Friday

Get Directions

Oberlin

Phone: (919) 350-8909

7:30 am – 5:30 pm, Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 3:30 pm, Friday

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Fuquay-Varina

Phone: (919) 235-1944

7:00 am – 4:00 pm, Monday – Thursday
7:00 am – 3:00 pm, Friday

Get Directions

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