The finger-prick tests we provide only require one small tube of blood and most people manage to provide enough blood for the laboratory to be able to perform their test. To give you the best chance, we provide 3 lancets within our finger prick kits, so you can try another finger if at first you don’t succeed. Follow our tips to help things go more smoothly:
- Hydration is very important. Drink plenty of water before the test.
- Testing when your hands are cold can be more painful and can restrict blood flow. Warm your hands up in some warm water before you begin.
- Do a little light exercise before you start, to get your blood pumping - Jogging on the spot for example.
- Try using the sides of your finger rather than the pad as this can help blood flow.
- Let gravity help you - stand up to take your sample and be gentle when massaging your finger to avoid damaging blood cells.
- Only use the equipment provided in the kit to complete your sample.
We have created a video to help you complete your finger-prick blood test:
If you need any more help please contact Customer Care who will be able to talk you through this process or provide another complimentary kit if needed.
If you're still struggling, we can also discuss upgrade options, such as visiting a Partner Clinic or arranging a Nurse Home Visit.
Additional Information
Completing a finger-prick blood sample is a safe and common procedure.
However, there can be some side effects during or after sample collection.
Bruising
When you have your blood taken, a small puncture is made where the needle passes through the skin of your finger. This can sometimes lead to minor bruising at the site of the test, which may be accompanied by slight swelling. Applying an ice pack can help reduce both swelling and any discomfort you may experience.
Infection
Infection happens more rarely. The needle will leave a small hole in the skin which may allow bacteria to cause a skin infection. You can help to prevent this by using the antibacterial wipe provided after your test and then using the provided plasters to protect the fingertips. If you notice that you have redness developing around the blood test site in the days following the blood test then we recommend seeing a doctor so that they can assess whether there is an infection present.
Pain
A small amount of pain or discomfort is normal after a finger prick blood test. Sometimes pain can be more intense than expected, and there are a lot of nerve endings in your fingertips. You may find that your fingertips are tender for a few days after you have completed the test. This will in most cases resolve without any treatment. If it continues to worsen then you should see your doctor.
Fainting
Feeling faint or dizzy during the procedure can occur. If you have experienced this in the past, you should consider sitting down when you complete the test and ask a friend or family member to be with you if you are able to. If you start to feel faint or dizzy during the procedure, then you should stop. You should then either sit or lie down. You may find that raising your legs in the air helps too. These manoeuvres help to relieve the feeling of faintness by helping blood flow to the brain.
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