Your kit contains full instructions on this, but there’s also a step-by-step video we’ve produced so you can get the hang of it. You can view the video here.
Getting ready to perform your test:
We recommend giving yourself thirty minutes to do your test, especially if it’s your first time – it often won’t take this long but it’s better not to be time stressed.
1. Drink enough water the day before your test — it’s best not to be dehydrated.
2. Fast for eight hours before collecting your sample — doing it in the morning before breakfast is usually easiest.
3. Drink one or two big glasses of water at least thirty minutes before doing your test.
4. Soak your entire hand (not just the tips) in warm water for two minutes.
5. Skip or march on the spot if you can to get your heart rate up — this helps your blood to flow quicker.
During sample collection
1. Stand up for the whole process — gravity helps your blood flow to your finger.
2. Prick the corner of your fingertip — it’s less sensitive and makes it easier to direct your blood. And make sure your finger is on a hard surface so the lancet can work properly.
3. Massage your hand in a firm downward motion — beginning below your wrist to just before the prick on your finger. Don’t squeeze too hard as it can damage your blood cells and we won’t be able to test it.
3. Wait 3-4 seconds between each massage — you need a little time for your blood to refill.
4. If the blood stops flowing then wipe the piercing with clean tissue — this helps remove any clots that can stop your blood flow. If this doesn’t work, re-prick a different finger using a new lancet. You can warm your hand again before re-pricking if needed.
5. Make sure you fill your tube to the right line: if it’s yellow, fill it to at least the second line — then put the cap on and turn upside down about ten times so your blood touches the gel at the bottom.
If it’s purple, fill it to at least the first line then immediately put the cap on and swirl so your blood touches the gel on the sides of the tube.
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