A Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination is important for commercial drivers to ensure their overall health and fitness to operate vehicles safely. The patient must pass their DOT test to allow them to either continue with their employment or retain it.
Here are some valuable tips and recommendations to help you prepare for successful DOT physicals. These tips will not only help you alleviate any stress or anxiety but also ensure that you are well-prepared and ready for the examination.
#1 Update Your Medical Information
It is crucial to provide the examiner with all your updated medical information. Before the examination, make sure to bring a list of all your current medications and allergies and be able to explain your medical history, all of which are useful information that will assist the examiner in assessing your health.
#2 Avoid Caffeine and Sugar
In the days leading up to your DOT physical, reducing your caffeine and sugar intake is advisable. Both substances can potentially affect your blood pressure and heart rate, which may impact the examination results. Opt for healthier alternatives and stay hydrated.
#3 Stop Smoking
Patients are advised to stay away from tobacco 24 hours before a DOT physical. Cigarette smoking can be a stimulant and may impact blood pressure readings. Caffeine and tobacco can raise your blood pressure by 20 points.
#4 Avoid Salty Foods
It is advisable to steer clear of salty foods before a DOT physical. Consuming excessive salt can elevate your blood pressure, which can cause you to fail your exam. You want to eat in a way that aids in lowering your blood pressure before your exam. However, a word of caution – blood pressure can get too low, which is also dangerous. Check with your doctor on how to go about this safely.
#5 Prioritize Rest
Adequate sleep and rest are vital for maintaining optimal health. Ensure you get enough sleep leading up to the examination – aim for eight hours of sleep – as it can help you feel refreshed and energized. If you are tired, your stress levels can increase, which is something to avoid. If you slept well the night before, you can better manage any anxiety or stress related to the DOT exam.
#6 Eat a Light Meal
The significance of the pre-DOT exam meal on your results is often overlooked. Aim to eat a light meal on the day of your exam; heavier meals can cause a spike in blood sugar levels, even for those without diabetes.
#7 Make Sure You Are Hydrated
You must ensure proper hydration levels on the day of your DOT physical. The exam requires you to produce a urine sample, and if you are well-hydrated, this should ensure a smooth process. Not only that, if you are hydrated, it also helps lower your blood pressure, which is important in a DOT physical.
#8 Aim to Reduce Stress Levels
Laughter helps reduce your blood pressure and your stress levels. If you have a favorite funny movie, try watching it or watch short clips the night before your DOT physical. Additionally, try to do light yoga exercises in the morning of the test. These are two very good ideas for a positive mindset in preparation for your DOT exam.
#9 Relax
You should arrive at the testing center well-rested and relaxed. Heightened stress levels can cause an increase in blood pressure, which can affect the results of the DOT physical. To counteract this, you can try engaging in deep breathing exercises before the examination, promoting a sense of calmness and reducing your heart rate.
DOT Physicals in Grand Junction, Colorado
At WorkPartners Occupational Health in Grand Junction, Colorado, we offer DOT physicals as part of our occupational health services. The test will be administered by a licensed medical examiner certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
WorkPartners Occupational Health is trusted by some of the best and most reputable companies in Colorado and the surrounding states, as well as by their workers.
Our friendly staff wants to help you have a successful exam. Feel free to ask us any questions about what to expect during the exam and how to better prepare for it, and we are only happy to guide you.
To schedule your DOT physical or to arrange one for an employee, call our office today at (970) 241-5585 or use our online appointment request form. We look forward to seeing you on your visit.
