Lancet Blood Test Kit Instructions
Before You Start
- Perform the test before 10 am after fasting for at least 8 hours (water is fine).
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours prior to testing.
- Avoid alcohol the night before your test.
- Post your sample between Monday and Thursday to ensure it reaches the lab promptly.
Instructions
Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap. This improves blood flow and reduces the risk of contamination.
Assemble your kit contents on a clean, flat surface. Check you have the lancets, collection tube, alcohol wipes, plaster, biohazard bag, and prepaid return envelope.
Choose a finger for the blood draw — the ring or middle finger on your non-dominant hand works best.
Warm your hand by running it under warm water with soap for one to two minutes. This encourages blood flow to your fingertips.
Dry your hand completely, then clean the chosen fingertip with the alcohol wipe. Allow it to air-dry for a few seconds.
Take the lancet, twist off the cap, and press it firmly against the side of your fingertip. Press the activation button to release the needle.
Wipe away the first drop of blood with a clean tissue. This removes tissue fluid that could dilute the sample.
Hold your hand below your heart and gently massage from the base of the finger toward the tip to encourage a steady flow of blood.
Hold the collection tube at a slight angle and allow blood drops to fall directly into it. Fill the tube to the marked line.
If blood flow slows, pause and re-massage the finger. You may use a second lancet on a different finger if needed.
Once the tube is filled to the line, apply pressure to the puncture site with clean gauze or tissue and cover with the adhesive bandage.
Gently invert the collection tube five times to mix the blood with the preservative inside. Do not shake the tube.
Ensure the tube cap is securely closed to prevent any leakage during transit.
Complete the sample label with your full name, date of birth, and the date and time of collection.
Attach the label to the collection tube, making sure the barcode is not obscured.
Place the labelled tube inside the biohazard bag and seal it securely.
Place the sealed biohazard bag into the prepaid return envelope.
Seal the return envelope and attach the Track24 shipping label to the outside.
Drop the package at your nearest Royal Mail priority postbox or post office.
Make a note of the Track24 tracking number so you can monitor delivery.
Dispose of used lancets safely in a sharps container or a rigid, puncture-proof container with a lid.
Your results will typically be available within a few working days of the lab receiving your sample. You will be notified via your Heracles dashboard.
Need help?
If you have questions about your blood test kit or need assistance, our clinical team is here to support you.
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