The Medical Technology Council clarifies scientific information on the topic "fasting from water and food" before blood draws, emphasizing "plain water" can be consumed normally.
FacebookThe Medical Technology Councilposted a message regarding "fasting from water and food before blood draws." It stated, "Following cases where some healthcare facilities' appointment documents and instructions have advised patients to 'fast from water and food' before blood draws, causing misunderstanding in the public that plain water must also be avoided like other foods and drinks, the Medical Technology Council wishes to clarify the scientific facts as follows.
Plain water can be consumed normally. Plain water refers to pure water (colorless, tasteless, calorie-free, and without other substances) and does not affect laboratory test results that require significant fasting. Conversely, fasting from water provides no benefit and may impact test results because dehydration can cause blood to thicken, leading to falsely elevated laboratory values such as Hemoglobin, Creatinine, and BUN. It can also make blood draws more difficult, increasing inconvenience and risk to the patient.
Additionally, laboratory reference values are generally set under conditions of fasting from food but allowing plain water intake. Fasting from water as well may cause inaccuracies in test results.
Therefore, the Medical Technology Council requests healthcare facilities to revise their instructions to 'fast from all food and drinks except plain water, which can be consumed normally.' Correct communication before testing is a key factor in improving the quality of laboratory test results and ensuring patient safety."
Thanks to the Facebook page of The Medical Technology Council