Essential Safety Tips for Indian Seniors Using At-Home Lab Tests

The COVID-19 pandemic has made at-home lab testing more popular than ever, especially among seniors who are more vulnerable to infection. While at-home tests offer convenience, it’s important for seniors to take precautions for accurate results and proper diagnosis. Here are some key precautions seniors should keep in mind when using at-home lab tests in India:

Precautions with At-Home Blood Tests

Blood tests are commonly used to check cholesterol, blood sugar, thyroid levels and more. When using at-home blood test kits in India, seniors should take the following precautions:

• Read all instructions carefully – Make sure to thoroughly read and understand the instructions for collecting the blood sample. Improperly collected samples can lead to inaccurate results.
• Use sterile materials – Only use the sterile lancets, collection cards, tubes etc provided in the kit. Never reuse or mix materials between different test kits as it increases the risk of contamination.
• Proper labeling – Clearly label collection cards/tubes with full name, date of birth, date & time of collection. Proper labeling helps the lab identify and process the sample correctly.
• Adequate blood volume – After pricking finger, double check that enough blood is collected and smeared onto the collection card or gathered in the tube. Underfilled samples may be rejected by the lab.
• Packaging – Carefully pack the sample with the activated cold pack if provided to keep the sample cool and temperature controlled. Do not freeze the sample.
• Timely shipping – Ship the sample using the prepaid return label immediately after collection. Avoid weekends or holidays which can delay transit times.
• Follow up if delayed – Call the diagnostic lab if results are delayed more than 48 hours after the sample was received for testing. Delayed results may need retesting.

Cautions with At-Home STD/STI Tests

At-home test kits for sexually transmitted diseases and infections (STD/STI) are growing in availability. When using these, seniors should take additional care to:

• Test at appropriate time – Only test 4-6 weeks after any suspected exposure for accurate detection of new infections. Testing too soon can lead to false negatives.
• Follow instructions – Thoroughly read and follow instructions before collecting urine, blood, or genital swab samples. Improper technique can impact results.
• Check expiration – Inspect kits carefully and do not use any expired, previously opened or damaged testing kits. Always check expiration dates.
• Avoid contamination – Thoroughly wash hands and only use fresh, sterile swabs provided in the kit to avoid contamination.
• One-time use – Each test kit should only be used once. Never reuse swabs, collection cups or other materials.
• Proper labeling – Correctly label samples with name, date of birth, date & time of collection for proper identification.
• Retest if necessary – Understand at-home STD/STI tests are not 100% accurate. Negative results may need retesting or doctor confirmation.

Also Read: Top 8 home Safety Tips for seniors

Precautions with At-Home Urine Tests

At-home urine tests conveniently screen for potential issues like infections, kidney problems, and pregnancy. When self-testing, seniors should:

• Proper collection – Never collect urine sample directly from the toilet bowl. Always collect a midstream sample in a sterile collection cup.
• Timed collection – If testing for infection, avoid urinating for 1-2 hours before collecting sample. This allows bacterial levels to rise for detection.
• Hygienic collection – Thoroughly wipe the genital area before collecting urine to avoid contaminating the sample.
• Prompt refrigeration – Cap sample cups tightly and refrigerate immediately if not testing right away. Old urine can produce inaccurate results.
• Use sample promptly – Only use urine sample for testing within 1-2 days after collection for best accuracy.
• Follow instructions – Carefully read and follow all kit directions for proper testing technique and result interpretation.
• Account for interference – Be aware certain medications or health conditions can potentially impact urine test results. Check with a doctor.

Using Caution with Any At-Home Lab Test

No matter what type of at-home lab test seniors use, some general precautions apply:

• Consult doctor first – Check with a physician before performing any self-tests, especially if taking medications or with medical conditions.
• Read instructions thoroughly – Carefully read all kit instructions 2-3 times before collecting any sample to avoid mistakes.
• Inspect materials – Ensure kits are not expired, materials are intact, and all components are sterile and high quality.
• Proper labeling – Correctly label all samples with at least two identifiers like name, date of birth, date & time.
• Careful packaging – Package samples with ample cushioning to prevent leakage or spillage when shipping to the lab.
• Follow up on results – Understand at-home results are not a diagnosis. Consult doctor, especially if unexpected results.
• Contact lab with issues – Call the diagnostic lab for any questions about proper technique, delays, or concerns with results.
• Verify accredited lab – Confirm the diagnostic lab is accredited and properly handles testing, results, and patient privacy. Avoid questionable operations.

Following these precautions helps seniors get the most accurate, reliable results from at-home lab tests in Kolkata. Proper self-testing gives doctors trusted information to make diagnoses and determine appropriate treatment plans. However, at-home tests should not replace regular doctor visits or in-person lab testing ordered by a physician when required for proper medical care.

Must Read: 7 Electricity Safety Tips for Elderly

Emoha Elder Care – Engage, Empower and Enhance Plans

For convenient access to lab tests and checkups without leaving home, seniors in Kolkata can utilize at-home doctor services like Emoha Elder Care. Our experienced, qualified doctors and technicians can perform needed lab tests and comprehensive health screenings in the comfort of your home.

Emoha provides an array of healthcare services tailored to seniors, maintaining your comfort and dignity. Contact Emoha today to learn more about them at-home doctor visits and lab testing for seniors in Kolkata. Our customized elderly care plans enable access to quality healthcare and assisted living support so you can continue thriving safely at home.