BloodDrop™ Instructions

Like any laboratory test, the proper collection of a specimen is vital to an accurate result. It is important for you as a provider to clearly understand the instructions enclosed in each kit so you can educate your patients or clients to ensure the best sample is submitted. Use the information below to familiarize yourself with the proper self collect process.

 

Collection preparation

  • Write your name on the card and put the card on the edge of a low table (below waist level), this helps with blood flow. Hint: Taping the card down may help keep it in place.

  • Gently massage the entire length of the middle or ring finger of your non-dominant hand for 60 seconds. Then wash your hands with soap and warm water for 60 seconds and dry with a clean towel.

  • Wipe your selected finger with the alcohol prep pad and allow it to dry.

Helpful hints

Please do:

  • Thoroughly warm your hands with hot water. Warming the hands will help with blood circulation and make collection easier.

  • Avoid the tip of your finger when positioning the lancet for collection. Fingertips are the most difficult area to puncture.

  • Drink plenty of liquids on the day you plan to collect your sample. Staying hydrated allows your blood to pump more efficiently.

  • Ask your healthcare practioner for assistance if you have ANY questions or concerns about collection.

  • Unwrap the included gauze and bandage and have them ready to use before you begin collection.

Please don't:

  • Open the white pouch until after you have collected your sample and it has dried.

  • Remove the contents of the white pouch, these are needed to preserve the sample.

  • Fast for this test; it is not necessary.

Collection steps

Step 1:
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  • After you have completed the collection preparation steps, ensure your hands are THOROUGHLY warmed with HOT WATER (well warmed hands will be pink).

  • Stretch your arm down well below heart level to help blood flow to the finger tips.

Step 2:
StepTwo.png

  • Twist the blue cap off of the lancet.

Step 3:
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  • Use the middle or ring finger on your non-dominant hand.

  • Identify collection site (the fleshy part of your middle finger, on the side facing your index finger if you are right handed.

Step 4:
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  • Remember to hold your arm straight down to help blood flow during collection.

Step 5:
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  • Push the lancet firmly against your finger on the collection site until you feel the prick.

Step 6:
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  • Once you have poked your finger, position it over the small square on the collection card-this square is located directly to the right of the red arrow.

  • If the puncture site does not bleed, you will need to repeat the process on a different finger using the spare lancet.

Step 7:
StepSeven.png

  • Gently milk your finger from palm to finger tip allowing at least 5 blood drops to fall directly into the small square.

  • Be patient, it may take a minute for blood to flow.

Step 8:
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  • If blood will not fall naturally, you may touch the drop to the center of the square Note: To avoid contamination do NOT touch or smear drops onto the card with your finger.

Step 9:
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  • Please note: The collected blood will soon appear in the rectangular area to the right of the filled squeare, this is normal *The filter paper to the right of the blood should become damp.

Post collection card care

  1. After collection, allow between 60 and 120 minutes for the blood to absorb and dry.

  2. Once the allotted time has passed, open the white pouch and place dried sample inside. DO NOT remove the contents of the pouch. Be sure to face your collection card with the blood sample facing the foil inside the pouch.

  3. Seal dried sample in white pouch and put inside clear plastic bag.

Post collection finger care

  1. After the collection is complete use the included gauze to wipe excess blood from the lanced finger and apply included bandage

  2. Please note: There may be tenderness in the lanced area for 4-7 days after collection - this is normal. If, however, there is unusual redness or the tenderness lasts longer than 7 days - seek assistance from a medical professional to ensure there is no infection.

Shipping instructions

  1. Complete required information on both the clear plastic bag and requisition form, and place back inside kit box.

  2. Turn inner label over so UPS label shows through front of box and snap kit securely shut.

  3. Please note: Kit must be received by the lab within 7 days of sample collection. Send the kit back within 24 hours of sample collection using the included prepaid UPS shipping label.