A medical assistant tells a patient that fasting prior to having blood drawn means ________.

A. refraining from eating and drinking anything, beginning the night before the blood is drawn
B. eating and drinking as usual, but not taking medications prior to the test
C. avoiding food except liquids for 2 hours before having blood drawn
D. eating a diet low in carbohydrates and fats for 12 hours before having blood drawn
E. following a clear liquid diet for 24 hours before having blood drawn

Answer: A