Prepare for a Test

Laboratory

Get Ready for Accurate Results

At Dr. Jameel Memorial Hospital, we want to ensure that every diagnostic test provides the most reliable and accurate results. Proper preparation before your test is essential, as certain foods, medications, or lifestyle factors may influence the outcome. Please review the following guidelines before visiting our Advanced Diagnosis and Laboratory Services.

General Guidelines

  • Bring Your Doctor’s Prescription – Always carry your referral letter or prescription to ensure the correct tests are performed.

  • Inform About Medications – Tell the medical staff if you are currently taking any medication or supplements.

  • Stay Hydrated – Drink sufficient water unless instructed otherwise.

Preparation for Microbiology Tests

Urine Culture & Sensitivity

  • Women: Clean the genital area with mild soap and water, dry with a clean cloth. Separate the labia, begin urinating, then collect the mid-stream urine in the provided sterile container. Secure the lid tightly.

  • Men: Clean and dry the genital area, retract the prepuce (if applicable), then collect a mid-stream sample in the sterile container.

  • Important: Deliver samples to the lab immediately. If delay is unavoidable, refrigerate or place in a cooler and submit within 24 hours.

Nail Specimens (Fungal)

  • Clean the affected area with saline and dry thoroughly.

  • Use a sterile blade or nail cutter to collect scrapings or clippings from the infected part and place in the provided container.

Sputum Culture & Sensitivity

  • Provide a deeply coughed sputum sample, ideally first thing in the morning. For bed-bound patients, collect the sample during chest physiotherapy.

  • Do not refrigerate or expose to heat—deliver promptly.

Pus Culture & Sensitivity

  • Whenever possible, submit a pus aspirate. If unavailable, use a sterile gel swab to collect the sample.

  • Wash the lesion surface with saline (avoid antiseptics), collect the sample, and submit immediately—do not refrigerate or heat.

Stool Sample (Full Report)

  • Pass stool into a clean, wide-mouthed container. Use the provided spoon to collect a representative portion and seal the container tightly.

  • Deliver without delay using the provided container—maintain cleanliness and avoid spills.

Preparation for Serology Tests

Dengue NS1 Antigen (Rapid Test)

  • Sample Type: Blood sample
  • Patient Preparation: No special preparation needed
  • Notes: Helps diagnose recent dengue infection—results are rapid.

Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Rapid Test

  • Sample Type: Blood sample
  • Patient Preparation: No special preparation needed
  • Notes: Detects recent infection; PCR and further tests recommended for positive cases.

Influenza A & B Rapid Test

  • Sample Type:  Nasal swab
  • Patient Preparation: No special preparation needed
  • Notes: Sample should be collected within 3–4 days of illness onset; PCR is more sensitive if needed.

VDRL / RPR (Syphilis Screening)

  • Sample Type: Blood sample
  • Patient Preparation: No special preparation needed
  • Notes: Screening test; results should be confirmed with specific methods.

HIV 1 & 2 Antibody (Rapid Test)

  • Sample Type: Blood sample
  • Patient Preparation: No special preparation needed
  • Notes: Collect between 6–12 weeks post-exposure; repeat at 6 months for accurate confirmation. A consent form is required. Positive results must be confirmed via Western Blot.

Other Tests

Imaging & Ultrasound Tests

  • For abdominal ultrasound, fast for at least 6 hours prior.

  • For pelvic ultrasound, drink plenty of water and avoid urination before the scan.

ECG / Cardiology Tests

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

  • Avoid using lotions, oils, or powders on the chest area.

Other Specialized Tests

Our staff will provide specific preparation instructions depending on the test. Please follow them carefully for the best results.

Need Help or Unsure How to Proceed?

Contact us at 077 944 0211, and our Laboratory team will guide you step-by-step to ensure a smooth sample collection process.