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When using self-administered tests, trust is key. Home health tests are convenient; we can monitor our health without having to go to the doctor, but we have to rely on their accuracy and our ability to use them correctly. Whether you’re checking your blood glucose or cholesterol or taking an STI test, the results you get are only as good as the method you use to get them.

Even small mistakes in taking these tests can result in wrong results, which can cause unnecessary worry or, worse, false reassurance.

Follow the process carefully, and you can minimise errors and get accurate information about your health. Here are 12 tips to get the best from your home health tests, starting with something often overlooked: check the expiration date...

1. Check the expiration date

Unglamorous as this step is, it's one likely to trip you up if you're not careful. Over time, the chemicals and materials in test kits can degrade, affecting their ability to produce accurate results. This can lead to false positives, false negatives, or inconclusive results.

Test manufacturers determine expiration dates based on extensive testing to ensure the reagents and materials maintain their effectiveness up to that point. After the expiration date, the components may not react as expected, rendering the test unreliable.

Checking the expiration date should be the first step before using any test kit. It's a simple precaution that can save you from the frustration of wasted time and resources and, more importantly, prevent you from making health decisions based on inaccurate data.

Discard expired kits and replace them with new ones so your health checks are based on accurate results.

1. Read the instructions carefully

The procedure for most of the tests we retail is quite intuitive, but that doesn’t mean you can skip the instructions. Reading the guidelines carefully is key to ensuring accurate results.

Each test kit is unique, with specific steps that must be followed precisely to ensure reliable outcomes. Skipping or misinterpreting any part of the instructions can lead to errors, affecting the accuracy of your results.

Here are some key points to pay attention to:

• Storage conditions: Be aware of any storage requirements before and after the test to maintain test integrity.
• Sample collection: Ensure you understand how to collect the sample properly, whether it's blood, saliva, or urine.
• Timing requirements: Many tests require you to perform steps within a specific time frame for accuracy.
• Reading results: Know how to interpret the test results correctly, and at what time, to avoid false readings.

Taking the time to read the instructions thoroughly can prevent unnecessary mistakes and provide you with the most reliable results.

1. Understand the test limitations

Knowing the limitations of the test is the only way to properly interpret your results. Each test is designed to detect certain conditions or biomarkers, but none can give you a full picture of your health alone.

Knowing what a test can and can’t detect helps set realistic expectations and prevents misinterpretation of the results.

For example, a test may show the presence of certain antibodies but can’t confirm an active infection. At-home cholesterol tests can measure levels but won’t give you a full cardiovascular risk assessment.

Always consider the scope of the test and consult with healthcare professionals for full evaluations when needed. This will help you make informed decisions based on your test results.

1. Store tests properly

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your home health tests. If they’re exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight, the conditions can compromise the test components, leading to inaccurate results.

Always check the packaging for specific storage instructions and follow them.

Generally speaking, storage guidelines include:

• Keep tests in a cool, dry place
• Avoid storing in bathrooms or kitchens where humidity fluctuates
• Protect from direct sunlight
• Maintain a consistent temperature, usually between 2-30°C (36-86°F)
• Don't freeze tests unless specifically instructed

Remember, proper storage extends beyond keeping the test kit intact. It ensures that the chemical reagents and biological components remain stable and reactive. By storing your tests correctly, you ensure that the chemical mechanisms that produce your results work as intended.

1. Perform tests at the recommended time

While not the case with all tests, timing can be crucial for many, especially those that measure hormones or metabolites that fluctuate throughout the day. Following the recommended timing ensures you're capturing the most accurate reading.

For instance, pregnancy tests are often most reliable when taken first thing in the morning. This is because the concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the hormone detected in these tests, is typically highest in the first-morning urine. Similarly, some menopause tests that measure follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels are best performed early in the day.

Blood tests, particularly those measuring glucose or lipid levels, often require fasting for a set period before testing. This usually means abstaining from food and certain drinks for 8-12 hours prior to the test. The fasting period allows your body to reach a baseline state, providing a more accurate picture of your metabolic health.

Always check the instructions for specific timing recommendations.

1. Use a clean and well-lit environment

Creating the right environment when testing ensures no foreign substances interfere with your results. A clean, well-lit space helps you see clearly and avoid contamination.

Choose a flat, stable surface away from potential disturbances. Good lighting is crucial for reading instructions accurately and interpreting results correctly, especially for tests with colour-based indicators.

Ensure your hands and testing area are clean to prevent any interference with the test components. This is particularly important for tests requiring blood samples or those sensitive to contaminants. A clean environment also minimises the risk of false readings due to external factors.

By setting it up properly, you're creating ideal conditions for reliable test results.

1. Collect samples correctly

Proper sample collection is crucial for accurate test results, regardless of whether you're using urine, blood, saliva, stool, or hair samples. Each type of test requires specific collection methods, but some best practices apply across the board:

• Always wash your hands thoroughly before collecting any sample
• Use only the collection devices provided in the test kit
• Follow the exact amount or volume requirements specified
• Avoid contamination from external sources
• Label samples immediately if required

For urine tests, use a clean catch midstream sample. Blood tests often involve a finger prick - ensure you clean the site first and apply the correct pressure. Saliva tests may require you to avoid eating or drinking for a period before collection. Stool samples need careful handling to prevent contamination, while hair samples usually require cutting close to the scalp.

Always refer to the specific instructions for your test, as proper collection is the foundation for reliable results.

1. Avoid cross-contamination

While on the topic of collecting samples, it's important to mention the risk of cross-contamination. This issue can compromise the accuracy of your results, especially when handling multiple samples or performing different tests at the same time.

To prevent cross-contamination, always use separate, clean tools for each sample.

For blood tests, ensure each lancet is single-use and disposed of immediately. When conducting urine tests, use a fresh collection cup for each one. If dealing with saliva samples, avoid touching the collection swab or allowing it to contact any surfaces. For stool samples, use dedicated, disposable equipment for each collection.

Remember to change gloves between samples if you're using them. By treating each sample as a separate entity and maintaining strict hygiene practices, you significantly reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

1. Follow the timing guidelines

Many home health tests, especially lateral flow tests, have a specific time window for reading results. For instance, a test might instruct you to read the results after 5 minutes but no later than 10 minutes.

Reading too early may lead to false negatives, as the test hasn't had enough time to fully react with the sample. Conversely, reading too late can result in false positives, as proteins in the sample may continue to bind non-specifically to the test lines over time.

These timing guidelines are determined through testing by manufacturers to ensure accuracy. By adhering strictly to these time frames, you're giving yourself the best chance of getting reliable results.

So, set a timer when you start the test to ensure you read it at the correct moment and avoid the temptation to interpret results outside the specified window.

1. Double-check results

If your test result seems unexpected or you're unsure about its accuracy, it's wise to perform a second test to double-check. This helps ensure consistency and can provide peace of mind, especially for tests with significant health implications. When double-checking results:

• Use a different test kit, preferably from a different batch
• Follow the instructions, paying extra attention to detail
• Perform the second test at the same time of day as the first, if timing is relevant
• Compare the results of both tests carefully

If the results of both tests align, you can have more confidence in their accuracy. However, if they differ, it may indicate a need for professional medical testing or consultation.

Remember that while home tests are convenient and often reliable, they're not infallible. Conflicting results or persistent concerns should always prompt a discussion with a healthcare provider.

1. Keep a log of your results

Keeping a log of your results can be an invaluable practice, especially for tests that you perform regularly. While not all home health tests require tracking over time, maintaining a record is particularly useful for those monitoring chronic conditions or long-term health trends.

For example, if you're regularly checking your blood glucose levels, urine pH, or cholesterol, a log can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and make informed decisions about your treatment or lifestyle adjustments. By noting dates, times, and any relevant observations or symptoms, you create a comprehensive overview of your health that can highlight changes or improvements.

Even if a test doesn't seem to require logging, maintaining records can provide peace of mind and useful data for future reference. This simple habit can enhance your understanding of your health and facilitate more productive conversations with your healthcare provider.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

While these tests are a convenient way to gain insights into your health, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you're ever in doubt about your results or unsure of the next steps, it’s always best to talk to a healthcare provider.

Professionals can provide context for your test results, help interpret complex outcomes, and guide you on appropriate actions or treatments. They can also recommend further testing if needed and address any underlying health issues that might not be apparent through home testing alone.

By combining the convenience of home health tests with the expertise of healthcare professionals, you get a more complete picture of your health.