Patient Preparation

Call CAMC LabWorks at 304-388-5070 or 800-445-5278, 24 hours in advance of draw, to schedule test. 

1. Patient should have consumed a high carbohydrate (at least 150g) diet at least 3 days prior to the test.
2. The patient should be ambulatory.  Inactivity decreases glucose.
3. The patient should be fasting overnight for 8-14 hours.
4. The patient should engage in minimal activity during the test.  Exercise and emotional stress should be avoided.
5. The patient should not smoke, chew gum or drink during the test. (1-2 small sips of water are acceptable.)
6. Patient should remain seated during testing.
7. Certain drugs such as salicylates, diuretics and anticonvulsants may decrease insulin production and should be avoided at least 3 days prior to the test if medically possible.  Also nicotinic acid, b-adrenergic blocking agents and high doses of some hormones will affect results.
8. The best time to conduct the test is between 7 a.m. and 12 noon. Call and get
   approval from physician to start testing after 9 a.m. if patient insists.  Explain that time of day will have an effect on results