Our kit has been designed with medical guidance to make the process as safe and simple as possible.
Each kit includes:
- clear instructions with useful tips to help make the process easier
- lancets that are designed for quick, gentle use - most people feel just a slight pinch
- contents that are sterile and single-use for maximum safety
Taking a blood test at home may feel unfamiliar at first. If you need to, ask someone at home to help you or go to a pharmacy for support.
How to take your sample
1. Prepare and set up
The day before you take your sample
- Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of water the day before you take your test to keep you hydrated. Being hydrated helps your blood flow better.
On the day
- Do your test Monday to Saturday. Avoid Sunday as your sample might sit in the post too long.
- Drink at least 2 glasses of water 30 minutes before starting.
- Do not eat for 8 hours before you take your blood sample. Taking it in the morning before your breakfast is usually easiest.
- Set aside 30 minutes. This will give you enough time to prepare, collect and pack your sample.
- Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, then dry them with a clean towel.
- Lay out all the items from your kit on a low table.
- If you are prone to fainting, sit down while you take your test.
2. Get the blood flowing
- Soak your non-dominant hand in warm water for 2 to 3 minutes until your fingers are slightly dimpled, then dry with a clean towel.
- Get the plasters ready to use.
- If possible, stand up and keep your hand below your elbow to help blood flow.
- If you can, swing your arm a few times to get the blood flowing.
If you feel faint at any point, lie down and raise your legs. If you continue to feel unwell, seek medical advice.
3. Collect your sample
- If you have two tubes in your kit, start with the yellow tube.
- Clean a finger (your ring finger works well) with the alcohol wipe.
- Twist off the top of the lancet.
- Place your hand palm-up on a table.
- Press the lancet down on the outer centre of your fingertip until you hear a click. Each lancet is single-use only.
- Firmly wipe away the first drop of blood with a clean tissue.
- Massage down from the top of your palm toward the finger-prick. Stop before you reach the pricked area. Repeat every 3 to 4 seconds.
- Tap the blood into the tube.
If it’s taking more than 30 seconds to fill the tube, swirl it gently after each drop to make sure the blood touches the sides.
If your blood stops flowing, wipe the pricked finger to stimulate blood flow again.
Fill the tube to the correct level
- Fill the yellow tube to the 600 line.
- Fill the purple tube to the 250 line.
4. Mix the tube
- Gently turn the yellow tube upside down at least 10 times to allow the blood to mix with the gel.
- If you have a purple tube, swirl it slowly for 20 seconds to keep the blood liquid.
- Clean your finger with the cleansing wipe and apply a plaster.
5. Label and pack your sample
- Complete the label(s) with your information and apply to the tube(s).
- Put the tube(s) into the clear plastic bag.
- Fill out the return form.
- Put the form and plastic bag(s) into the box.
- Place the box into the prepaid envelope provided.
6. Post
- Post your sample in a postbox. You do not need to visit a post office.
Further help and support
If you need further help and support with your blood sample, contact the NHS App and account team.