Preparing for sampling

Many pre-sampling factors affect the results of laboratory tests. Therefore, it is important that you prepare for sampling according to the instructions provided by your treatment centre. If you have not received preparation instructions from the treatment centre, you can ask them at the laboratory before the scheduled sampling time.

See general instructions for preparing for sampling (in Finnish, hoito-ohjeet.fi).

An anaesthetic ointment or patch for elbow creases can be purchased from a pharmacy before sampling. If necessary, the anaesthetic patch can also be obtained from the laboratory, but it is good to note that the minimum effect time of the patch is one hour. The use of anaesthetic is not necessary for sampling.

Children's sampling – guidebook for children and parents (in Finnish, hoito-ohjeet.fi)