Clinical Trial Preparation and Participation Guide

Pre-Study Preparation

Before Screening

Screening visits determine your eligibility. Prepare by:

• Reviewing all eligibility criteria before applying
• Gathering your complete medical history, including medications
• Being prepared to disclose all health information accurately
• Bringing government-issued ID and any required documentation
• Arriving well-rested and hydrated (unless instructed to fast)
• Allowing adequate time—screening visits can take several hours

Pre-Visit Instructions

Each study has specific pre-visit requirements. Common instructions include:

• Fasting: No food or drink (except water) for 8-12 hours before
• Medication washout: Stopping certain medications days before
• Alcohol restriction: No alcohol for 24-48 hours prior
• Caffeine restriction: No caffeine for 12-24 hours prior
• Exercise restriction: No strenuous activity before certain tests
• Specific diet: Following meal requirements the day before

Understanding the Protocol

Before enrollment, thoroughly understand what participation involves:

• Read the entire informed consent document
• Ask questions about anything unclear
• Understand all procedures, blood draws, and sample collections
• Know the visit schedule and time requirements
• Understand restrictions during participation
• Know the compensation schedule and withdrawal policies

Inpatient Study Preparation

What to Pack

For multi-day inpatient stays, bring items for comfort and entertainment:

• Comfortable clothes (check facility restrictions on logos, strings)
• Non-slip socks or slippers
• Personal toiletries (check if scented products are allowed)
• Entertainment: books, tablets, laptops (facilities usually have WiFi)
• Chargers for electronic devices
• Prescription medications in original bottles (for documentation)
• Sleep aids if you have trouble sleeping in new environments
• Snacks may not be allowed—check the policy

What to Expect During Confinement

Inpatient stays involve structured schedules and restrictions:

• Meals provided at set times—you cannot eat outside meal times
• Limited or no outside visitors
• Scheduled blood draws and procedures throughout the day/night
• Exercise restrictions (often limited to walking)
• Alcohol and caffeine typically prohibited
• Lights out and wake times may be scheduled
• Shared rooms with other participants in some facilities

Managing the Experience

Long stays require mental preparation:

• Bring plenty of entertainment—time can move slowly
• Connect with other participants (shared experience helps)
• Maintain a positive attitude—complaining affects everyone
• Follow all rules even when staff is not watching
• Use the time productively—study, read, work remotely if allowed
• Stay physically active within permitted limits

Common Participation Mistakes

Breaking Fasting Requirements

Even small amounts of food or non-water beverages can invalidate test results. If you accidentally break a fast, disclose it immediately—hiding it can compromise study results and your future participation opportunities.

Sneaking Prohibited Items

Facilities search belongings and conduct random checks. Bringing prohibited items (outside food, alcohol, caffeine) can result in immediate dismissal without compensation. The restrictions exist for scientific validity—respect them.

Incomplete Disclosure

Failing to disclose medications, supplements, or health changes puts you at risk and compromises study data. If something changes between screening and enrollment, report it even if you fear it might disqualify you.

Skipping Follow-Up Visits

Follow-up visits after the main study are often required and compensated. Skipping them affects your payment and may disqualify you from future studies at that facility. Complete the entire protocol as agreed.

Frequently Asked Questions