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Questions and answers

Test day

Test days are an ordinary part of treatment, but they can bring anxiety. A little preparation makes the day easier.

Last updated: ~1 min read
Morning: a packed bag
Figure 1.Morning: a packed bag

01Short answer

A test day may include a blood test, sometimes a bone marrow examination, imaging or a clinic visit. The day before, check the preparation needed and get your documents, medicine list and questions ready. Bring comfortable clothes, water, a snack (unless you must fast) and something to pass the time. During neutropenia it helps to wear a mask in the waiting room and sit away from people who are unwell. Write the results in a notebook and ask the doctor to explain them.

02Simple explanation

Test day is calmer with preparation.

Write your questions in advance.

03Scientific explanation

Some tests need you to arrive fasting; for others certain medicines are taken as usual (for example before a PCR test in CML); the centre sets the requirements.

Before a bone marrow examination local anaesthetic, sometimes light sedation, is given; afterwards someone may need to take you home.

04What happens in the body?

The day before

Confirm the time, place and preparation. In your bag: ID, insurance papers, previous results, medicine list and questions.

On the day

Leave early and allow for waiting. Breathing exercises or music can ease anxiety. If you are in pain or frightened, tell the nurse.

A calm waiting room
Figure 2.A calm waiting room — Test day

Afterwards

Ask when results will be ready. Write them in your notebook and discuss the trend with your doctor.

A notebook for results
Figure 3.A notebook for results

05A test-day plan

Four steps.

Prepare the evening before — Bag and documents ready.1Prepare the evening beforeBag and documents ready.
Arrive early — Allow for waiting.2Arrive earlyAllow for waiting.
The test — Calm breathing helps.3The testCalm breathing helps.
Record the result — In your notebook.4Record the resultIn your notebook.
Less stressPreparation reduces surprises.
Clear informationResults stay organised.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
The day beforeConfirm the time, place and preparation. In your bag: ID, insurance papers, previous results, medicine list and questions.
On the dayLeave early and allow for waiting. Breathing exercises or music can ease anxiety. If you are in pain or frightened, tell the nurse.
AfterwardsAsk when results will be ready. Write them in your notebook and discuss the trend with your doctor.

07Key terms

Fasting
Not eating for a set time before a test.
Sedation
A light sleep medicine for comfort during a procedure.
Trend
How results change over time.

08Key points

  • Ask about preparation.
  • Bring documents and questions.
  • Protect yourself from infection while waiting.
  • Record your results.

09Frequently asked questions

Should I take my medicine before the test?

It depends on the test; ask your team.

Can I drive myself after a marrow test?

If you had sedation, usually not; someone should take you.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Should I take my medicine before the test?

  2. Can I drive myself after a marrow test?

My questions

12Sources

  1. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). How to Understand Your Lab Results
  2. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Bone marrow aspiration
  3. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adjustment to Cancer: Anxiety and Distress (PDQ®)
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adjusting to Cancer
  6. American Cancer Society. Neutropenia (Low White Blood Cell Counts)
  7. American Cancer Society. Typical Treatment of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (Except APL)
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Nutrition in Cancer Care (PDQ®) – Patient Version
  9. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Seeking a Second Opinion
  10. NHS. Chemotherapy
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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