Questions on that clinical are not in bold, answers are in bold and additional info are italics so we can dertermie what to plug in and make part of our presentations.

1. What test should be done to evalulate the patients glucose tolerance?...A glucose challenge screening will determine if a glucose tolerance test is needed. A glucose challenge is a test to evaluate how your body processes sugar. A high level in your blood may indicate that your body is not processing sugar effectively (positive test). If the results of this screen are positive, the woman may have the Glucose Tolerance Test performed. It is important to note that not all women who test positive for the Glucose Challenge Screening test are found to have diabetes upon further diagnosis.

No preparation is required prior to the test. During the test, the mother is asked to drink a sweet liquid (glucose) and then will have blood drawn one hour from having the drink, as blood glucose levels normally peak within one hour. No fasting is required prior to this test.

Prior to the test the glucose tolerance test, your doctor will ask you to make sure that you are eating at least 150mg of carbohydrates for three days prior to the time you will be asked to fast (about what you will get from a slice or two of bread). You will not be permitted to eat or drink anything but sips of water for 14 hours prior to the test, so it is best to schedule the test for first thing in the morning. Additionally, you should plan to have someone drive you to and from the test, since your energy levels may be low and there is a slight possibility of experiencing lightheadedness.

When you arrive, the technician will draw blood to measure your baseline “fasting blood glucose level”. You will be asked to drink a larger volume (or more concentrated solution) of the glucose drink than was used in the initial Glucose