If a blood test requires a fasting specimen, what is the best way to verify that the patient is fasting?
A) Assume the patient is fasting.
B) Ask the ward clerk whether the patient is fasting.
C) Ask the patient if he is fasting.
D) Ask the patient when the last time was that he had anything to eat or drink.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Asking the patient when the last time was that he had anything to eat or drink will give a precise idea of the fasting status of the patient, as some patients may not understand what constitutes fasting. Therefore, it is the best way to verify if the patient is fasting. A) Assuming the patient is fasting may lead to inaccurate results. B) Asking the ward clerk may not always provide reliable information. C) Asking the patient if he is fasting may not provide a precise idea of when the patient had their last meal or drink.

If a Blood Test Requires a Fasting Specimen, What Is