Full guide with yes/no rules for 26 common blood tests — plus what to do if you accidentally ate or had coffee.
Search your test name below for an instant yes/no answer — or read the full prep guide.
Fasting means no food or drink (except water) for 8–12 hours before your blood test. Most people fast overnight and have their blood taken first thing in the morning.
Drink water — plain water is fine and encouraged. Staying hydrated makes your veins easier to find.
Take your regular medications — unless your doctor specifically told you not to. Take them with a sip of water.
Sleep normally — there's no need to wake up early to start fasting. Just don't eat after dinner the night before.
Food — no breakfast, snacks, lollies, chewing gum, or mints. Even a small amount can affect results.
Coffee and tea — even black coffee without sugar can affect some results (particularly glucose and cortisol). Avoid unless your doctor says otherwise.
Juice, soft drink, milk, flavoured water — anything with calories or sugar breaks the fast.
Alcohol — avoid for at least 24 hours before the test, as it affects liver function and triglyceride results.
Smoking — avoid on the morning of the test if possible. Smoking can affect some blood test results.
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If your GP has ordered a mix of tests, some requiring fasting and some not — it's simplest to fast for all of them. Your pathology form will usually say "fasting" if any test requires it.
Tip: If unsure, always follow the instructions on your pathology request form or ask your GP.
Tell the pathology collector. They can still take your blood, but they'll note that you weren't fasting. Your GP will interpret the results accordingly. Some tests (like glucose) will need to be repeated fasting, while others (like full blood count or thyroid) won't be affected.
Book the earliest appointment available — less time spent hungry.
Eat a normal dinner the night before (avoid very fatty or heavy meals).
Drink plenty of water — hydration makes veins easier to access. Drink a glass of water before you leave home.
Bring a snack to eat immediately after the blood draw.
Wear a short-sleeved or loose-sleeved top so the collector can access your arm easily.
If you feel faint during or after the blood draw, tell the collector. They can take blood while you lie down.
You need a pathology request form from your GP. Take this to any pathology collection centre — you don't need to go to a specific one.
Major pathology providers include Pathology Queensland, QML, Sullivan Nicolaides, Laverty, Australian Clinical Labs, and Douglass Hanly Moir. Most are bulk billed (no cost to you) when you have a Medicare card and a valid request form.
Many pathology centres accept walk-ins, but some require bookings during busy periods. Check their website or call ahead.