Step-by-step instructions
You’ll get clear instructions on how to:
- prepare for the test
- collect your blood sample
- post your sample back
Tubes
Depending on your test, your kit will include one or two tubes:
- a yellow tube for testing your cholesterol levels
- a purple tube to test your blood sugar (HbA1c) levels
There is gel inside the tubes to keep your sample stable for up to a week.
Tube casing
The tube casing is a plastic sleeve that protects your sample from damage when you post it.
Tube labels
Your return form will have one or two sticky labels, depending on how many tubes are in your kit.
Make sure you attach the correct label to the correct tube. Each label has a coloured edge that matches the tube's colour:
- a yellow edge for the yellow tube
- a purple edge for the purple tube
If you do not label the samples, the lab might discard them.
Lancets
There are 3 lancets in each kit. These are small, single-use tools that prick your finger to collect blood.
The lancets are single-use only.
Wipes
Each kit contains:
- an alcohol wipe to use before pricking your finger
- a cleansing wipe to use after pricking your finger
Return form
The return form tells the lab which tests to run. We cannot process your sample without it.
Make sure you use the same first name, last name and date of birth that you use for your NHS login.
Pre-paid envelope
The pre-paid Tracked 24 envelope can safely carry blood samples.
Put the blood sample and return form in the envelope and drop it into a post box. You do not need to visit the Post Office.