Final answer:
For blood tests measuring cholesterol and triglycerides, clients should fast overnight before the test. High triglyceride levels increase the risk of heart disease and can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications. There is no need for two samples drawn an hour apart for standard lipid profile tests.
Step-by-step explanation:
Blood Test Preparation for Cholesterol and Triglycerides
When a client is scheduled for blood tests to measure cholesterol and triglycerides, it is essential they are given clear instructions for accurate results. For cholesterol and triglyceride tests, the client should practice overnight fasting before the blood draw. Fasting is required because it ensures that the lipid levels in the blood are not temporarily elevated from recent food intake, which can distort the test results.
During fasting, lipids such as triglycerides in the blood return to a baseline making it possible to assess the person's typical levels. High levels of triglycerides are linked to an increased risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease, and stroke. If the test shows high triglycerides, management may include healthy lifestyle choices or prescription medications to lower the risk of these diseases.
Regarding the process that occurs in the glass tube, when a blood sample is collected, it typically begins to clot. The serum, which is the liquid part of the blood after the removal of cells and clotting factors, is harvested after allowing the clot to form. This serum is then used for further analysis such as measuring lipid profiles. Therefore, there is no need for the client to stay at the laboratory for two blood samples to be drawn an hour apart unless specific dynamic testing is required, which is not the case for standard lipid tests.