Taking a blood sample - Test Your Intolerance New Zealand

How to take your blood sample

For best results, we recommend collecting your sample on Monday to Tuesday – and mail it on the same day it was collected (within 24 hours, please consider any public holidays).

Step 1 | Receive testing kit in the mail

When you have received your testing kit, please open it. Fill out the blood submission form with the required details as you will need to return this form with your blood submission.

Please read these instructions carefully before you begin. Please do not take your blood sample immediately after strenuous exercise. If you have difficulty taking your blood sample, then please contact our customer service department who are always willing to help.

Step 2 | Taking the sample
  • Open the blood spot card. Fold the paper back to reveal the collection paper. Do not touch the sample area.
  • Hold your hand under warm water for at least one minute to stimulate blood circulation then carefully dry your hand with a towel.
  • We recommend standing up and swing your arm around in a circular motion 5-10 times, with your arm fully extended if possible. This helps stimulate blood circulation. Please remain standing until you’ve finished taking your sample, if possible.
  • Remove the provided disinfectant cloth from its film and use it to disinfect the entire tip of your index or middle finger. Wait for it to dry.
  • Hold the lancet horizontally, rotate the yellow protective cover one full turn then carefully remove it.
  • Place your hand on a stable surface. Hold the lancet diagonally against the top of your selected finger. Press firmly with your thumb on the yellow button.

Step 3 | Fill the blood spot card with your sample

  • Keep your hand horizontal at hip height and massage your finger from the palm of the hand to the fingertip until blood droplets form.
  • Hold the base of the collection card to prevent it from moving. Allow blood to drip onto each of the circles, filling each one fully. Ensure you do not touch the collection paper.
  • Once you have filled the five circles, slightly bend the collection card away from the cover to allow air to flow beneath the blood spot collection card. Leave on a flat surface to dry.
  • After collecting your blood sample, press the swab firmly against the location of the blood to stem the blood flow.
  • When the bleeding begins to slow, apply the band-aid to the puncture.

Step 4 | Post your sample to our labs for testing

  • When the sample is dry, fold the cover over the sample and tuck it into the bottom flap.
  • Place your completed dried blood spot collection card into the enclosed return envelope with your completed details card. Then close the envelope carefully and immediately mail it back to our lab.
  • Place the used equipment parts in the provided clear plastic bags. Dispose of them in your household trash.

Frequently asked questions

How do i take my blood sample?

1. Receive your testing kit in the mail.

2. Clean your finger and use the finger prick to take your sample

3. Fill the blood spot card with your sample.

4. Mail your sample to our labs for testing.

Does it hurt to take a blood sample?

We provide you with easy-to-use lancets designed to give you a tiny prick on the finger to start the blood flow.

It’s precisely the same as a pinprick and, if administered correctly following our provided instructions and tips, will not hurt.

Can i complete a blood test on a child?

While we allow children from the age of 2 and above for blood allergy and food intolerance testing.

There is evidence that allergies are not fully developed until the age of 7. Please check with a medical professional before purchasing.

Will medication affect my results in any way?

There are a few types of medication that may stop your test from being accurate.

Immune suppressant medications can also affect the results of the testing, we advise that you check with our team prior to testing regarding medications.

Antihistamines have been shown to affect results; we advise stopping antihistamine use for 3-5 days before taking your sample.

However, we would recommend seeking advice from a medical professional before changing any medication

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