What is involved in screening for a study?
First, the clinic will arrange with you a screening appointment, and tell you what to avoid in the days prior to the screening. This will usually include alcohol, recreational drugs, most or all medications, and any food or beverages containing caffeine, such as tea, coffee, cola, cocoa, and chocolate. They may also tell you to refrain from strenuous exercise, and not to eat or drink certain things. Some clinics also ask you to fast (not eat) for between 4 and 12 hours before a screening. When you arrive at the clinic, you usually need to show photo ID, and then you are given forms to fill out concerning your personal details and your medical history. You will need to sign a consent form for screening, which gives the clinic permission to test your blood for HIV and Hepatitis B & C, and to test your urine for drugs and alcohol. The results of these tests are confidential unless the clinic tells you otherwise. The most important form you will encounter is the legally required “informed
