4 Secrets to a Stress-Free Blood Test

It’s perfectly normal to feel a little nervous before a blood test. But if the anticipation causes you to feel a deeper sense of dread or anxiety, it can actually make your test more painful. That’s because spikes in stress can lead to a spike in your blood pressure. This causes your blood vessels to narrow, which makes it a lot harder for your phlebotomist (the lab technician drawing your blood) to find your veins.

To help ease your nerves, we’ve compiled some tips for a better blood test experience.

Hydrate ahead of time

In the 24 hours leading up to your labwork, limit your caffeine and increase your water consumption. Well-hydrated veins are fuller and therefore far easier to locate. You don’t have to go to extremes. Simply getting the recommended daily 64 ounces of water is often enough. If you are told not to drink water before your test, hydrate as much as possible in the 24 hours before your cut-off time.

Stay warm

Just like dehydration, being cold can constrict your veins. Wear layers so that you can stay warm while you wait. Speaking of waiting, try to stay active before your test. Do a quick workout or even take a brisk, arm-pumping walk from the parking lot to the lobby. You can also ask your provider to apply a heat pack before he or she begins.

Be honest with your phlebotomist

Nervous patients are a routine part of the job for phlebotomists. Being honest with them won’t embarrass you—they have seen and heard it all. If you have any history of fainting, let them know so they can position you safely in a low chair or, in extreme cases, a floor cushion. If you have a history of unusual pain during blood draws, ask if a smaller needle (called a butterfly needle) or a numbing agent is available. And if he or she isn’t successful in finding a vein after two tries, it’s perfectly ok to ask for someone else.

Know how to distract yourself

Focusing on your breathing and even counting your breaths is a great distraction and will help you avoid getting lightheaded. Ask your provider how long the blood draw will take and then begin counting up or down from that number to give you a “goal” to focus on. If you need a bigger distraction, ask if you can wear headphones during the procedure. If the answer is yes, turn on some soothing music, close your eyes, and take a mental escape. Before you know it, it will be all over.

Located at 504 East Ridgeville Boulevard, the Mt. Airy Health & Wellness Pavilion offers comprehensive lab services—including adult and pediatric blood draws, cholesterol and diabetes testing, urinalysis and more—Monday through Saturday with physician referral. Call 301-829-5800 to get started.

To explore all of the pavilion’s on-site services—including primary and specialty care providers, urgent care and physical therapy—go to MtAiryHealth.org now.