Pathology Services
A Melbourne Pathology collection centre is located in our practice. They attend every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings between the hours of 9:00am – 12:30pm. You will need a pathology request from the doctor before any bloods will be taken.
No appointment is necessary however, please remember bring your Medicare card, Concession card and Health Fund card.
In most cases you will need to be fasting from midnight before the bloods are drawn, however it is encouraged that you drink plenty of water.
IMPORTANT: If you are diabetic, please speak to the doctor to get advice on fasting.
Fasting instructions:
The doctor has ordered a blood test requiring you to ‘fast’ prior to the procedure.
Please follow these instructions carefully.
- Make sure you have nothing to eat or drink (other than water) for at least 8 hours. It’s easiest to fast overnight and most tests are best to be done in the morning for accurate diagnosis.
- You can drink water at any time, but you should not drink tea, coffee, soft drinks or fruit juice.
- Please do not fast for longer than 15 hours. It is unpleasant and can affect your results.
- If you have diabetes or are taking any morning medication, speak with your doctor before fasting. Not eating while on treatment (medication) for diabetes can be dangerous.
Following your blood test:
Under normal circumstances, venepuncture (drawing of blood) is a simple procedure that rarely causes any side effects.
Mild discomfort or the appearance of a bruise may occur in some circumstances. Bruising will normally resolve within a few days. If you are concerned, please contact Melbourne Pathology as soon as possible on 9287 7700.
Simple precautions you should take following your blood test are:
- For the rest of the day, avoid heavy lifting involving the arm used for your blood test.
- Leave the tape or the bandage on your collection site for 1 – 2 hours only.
- Avoid placing the strap of your handbag or shopping bag over the venepuncture site that day.
- Wear clothes with loose fitting sleeves for the rest of the day.
- Should bleeding at the site occur, apply firm pressure with a finger. Keep pressure on the site for a few minutes.
