OSF Saint Francis Medical Center

Peoria, Illinois

Lab Test

How to prepare for your lab test

  • lab.JPGPlease notify a staff member if you have a latex allergy or feel faint.
  • Because testing differs for each patient, ask your physician for instructions on how to prepare for your lab work.
  • Fasting is frequently necessary before having blood drawn. Commonly ordered fasting tests include fasting blood glucose (fast for six to eight hours); lipids including cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL (fast for 12 to 14 hours); gastrin (fast for 12 hours); folate (fast for 12 hours).


Getting your results

In most cases, your laboratory test is available to your physician within 24 to 48 hours. Please keep in mind that your doctor’s office may need additional time to incorporate the report into your personal medical record.