Focus on your Work

A fasting blood sugar test measures sugar (glucose) in your blood. It’s a simple, safe and common way to diagnose prediabetes, diabetes or gestational diabetes. A healthcare provider will prick your finger or use a needle to draw blood from a vein in your arm. Don’t eat or drink anything (except water) for 8 to 12 hours before the test.
 

What can I expect on the day of the test?

A fasting blood glucose test is often done with a common blood draw. A healthcare provider will:

  • Clean the area inside your elbow to kill any germs.
  • Tie a band around your upper arm, which will help the veins in your arm fill with blood.
  • Insert a clean needle into a vein (which feels like a brief pinch).
  • Draw blood into a vial that’s attached to the needle and labeled with your personal information.
  • Remove the band and then the needle.
  • Put pressure on the needle insertion site to stop the bleeding.
  • Place a bandage on the area.