How to take a blood sample
Before you start
Please post your sample on the day you collected it.
Wash your hands and check the kit is within the expiry date. This can be found on the top of your mailing box. If the kit seal is broken do not use the kit and contact us.
Check you have all materials as described in the list of components. If components within the kit are damaged or missing, do not use the kit and contact us.
Drink a glass of water, being hydrated helps with blood flow.
You will need:
Blood sample tube
3 lancets - each lancet can be used once
2 Pre-injection swabs
Cleansing wipe
2 Plasters
Taking your sample
Remove the cap from your tube. Place your tube into the tube holder labelled A.
Soak your non-dominant hand in warm water for 3-5 minutes to help increase blood flow. Dry your hand afterwards.
Use the side of your ring (4th) finger. Gently massage your finger for 10-15 seconds from base to tip to improve blood flow.
Clean the tip of your finger with a pre-injection swab. Let your finger air dry for approximately 1 minute.
Twist off the cap of your lancet to open it. Bring the lancet to the side of your finger. Keeping the lancet straight, press it into your finger. You should hear a click.
Wipe away the first drop of blood, using some tissues. Try and keep your arm as straight as possible and below your heart while collecting your blood.
Aim to fill the tube to the upper line marked 600. If you can’t get to 600, continue through the instructions.
Using a cleansing wipe, clean your fingertip and apply a plaster to your fingertip.
Check to see if your tube is filled to the upper line marked 600. If the tube is not filled to 600, repeat steps 1 through to 9 using the same tube but a different finger.
Place the cap back onto the tube and press firmly until you hear a click. Gently invert the tube 5 times. This is so the blood mixes with the gel (anti blood-clot agent).
Posting your samples
Before you post your samples:
You’ll need your lab form and a pen.
Check all your sample tubes are securely closed and you've stuck labels to each one.
Place your tubes into the plastic pouch and follow the instructions on the front to seal it.
Place this into your mailing box.
Write the date you took your samples on your lab form.
Place your completed lab form into your mailing box alongside your samples.
Close your mailing box. Making sure you don’t cover the UN3373 markings or your return postage label, seal your mailing box shut using the security seal provided.
Post your samples to the lab. Making sure to follow your local guidelines, dispose of all your used and unused items.
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