How to use your blood sample kit

Everything you need to know to take your blood sample at home

What’s in the blood sample kit?

  • 2 sterile wipes

  • 3 lancets - each lancet can be used once

  • Sample tube

  • 2 plasters

Included in the box:

  • Specimen transport bag

  • Lab card

  • Freepost box and security seal sticker

You’ll also need some tissue.

If anything is missing, text us.

Getting ready

Before you take a blood sample:

  • drink plenty of water - being hydrated helps with blood flow

  • get your hands and body warm, the best way is to have a bath or shower

  • if you might faint or you’re feeling worried, ask someone to help or be with you

  • watch our video to see how to take the sample

Posting your kit

  1. Put the tube into the specimen transport bag. If you have more than 1 kit, take all your samples and put them in the same bag.

  2. Peel off the yellow strip, fold and seal the bag. You do not need to add your name, we’ve already labelled the tube with your unique code.

  3. Write the date on your lab card. Put the lab card and your sealed bag of samples into the Freepost box. 

  4. Close the box using the security seal sticker.

Post back in any An Post box or Post Office.

What happens next

Once you’ve posted your kit:

  • when your results are ready, they’ll be sent to you in a text message

  • sometimes we’ll need to speak with you on the phone

  • if you need treatment or any support, we can help you

Do you need help with something else?