Recommendations After Sample Collection

If bruising, pain, or swelling develops after the blood draw for any reason, please follow these guidelines:

• Report it to your phlebotomist or, if symptoms are severe, to the laboratory physician.

• Keep the collection site cool for up to 24 hours (apply a cold compress to the site intermittently, at 15-minute intervals).

• If you experience pain within 24 hours after the blood draw, you may take a pain reliever.

• Bruising may take anywhere from three days to two weeks to heal.

• If pain or swelling worsens, inform the laboratory physician.

• Drink enough water for your height, weight, and age (about 8 glasses for an average adult), and avoid alcohol and caffeine after the blood draw as much as possible.

• Avoid strenuous exercise after the blood draw, especially weightlifting and mountain climbing.

• Do not take a hot shower after the blood draw.

Lightheadedness After a Blood Test

• Some people may feel dizzy or even faint during or after a blood test. If this has happened to you before, it is important to let the phlebotomist know. In such cases, it is best to have the blood drawn while lying down, if possible, and to avoid getting up quickly right after the draw.