Proper blood collection is critical.
Accuracy is of utmost importance in STI testing, and our meticulous laboratory partners, Molecular Labs, prioritize it as well. One reason why patients may have their lab specimens rejected is due to insufficient blood in the sample.
To ensure a successful sample, make sure to fill in the circle on the front of the card and ensure the blood saturates the paper all the way to the back. While there is no circle stenciled on the back, imagine that there was and fill it accordingly. The “circle” diameter must be completely filled with blood on both sides of the testing medium.
Any card submitted without enough samples will be rejected by the lab and cannot be replaced by Shameless Care. Check out the instructions and example of a rejected card below.
To make the process easier and less painful, here are some helpful tips:
- Run hot water over your hands for at least five minutes before washing and preparing with alcohol to increase blood flow.
- Use the lancet on the side of your fingertip, avoiding any calluses you may have.
- Squeeze your finger firmly, release, and allow it to refill with blood before repeating the process.
- Finally, make sure to submit a complete card. Incomplete cards will be rejected.
Here are a few additional notes:
- The test(s) must be returned within 60 days and at the same time.
- After you collect your specimens, ship them back to the lab immediately.
- Tests can only be completed by the person who ordered them.
- If you have questions or issues, do not hesitate to email customerservice@shamelesscare.com, or call/text (prefer text) 773-410-7884.
- Once the lab receives your specimens, you will be required to complete a post-testing form prior to receiving your results.
Here is an example of a blood sample collection card that could not be used for testing. Although it appears to be enough from the front, you can see that the blood has not saturated sufficiently per the instructions above.
