Some tests have a minimum age requirement. [5] X Research source Before helping your child take the test, check if they are old enough for the particular product.
The instructions card includes information on what to do with your sample and how to get your result, which varies greatly from kit to kit. Make sure that you prepare all necessary equipment before continuing to take the sample. The card can also help to identify the type of sample needed. Make sure to set up the test as per the card before moving on, as you will have a limited time after testing to administer the sample.
If you are using commercial cleaners, try to use those that include alcohol, peroxide, or chlorine contents. These are more effective for this goal. If you lack commercial cleaners in the pandemic, use preferably undiluted alcohol or hydrogen peroxide solutions.
It is required that you keep your hands clean and sterile throughout the test, so make sure to not touch anything that has a chance of contaminating the samples.
Nasal sampling refers to samples collected through the nose and is not suitable for toddlers. The nostrils of smaller kids are underdeveloped, and using nasal collection might cause damage to the nose. Discomfort is inevitable. You will need to remove your nose ring(s) if you have any on. [7] X Research source Oral sampling refers to samples collected through the mouth. This is suitable for people of all ages. Similarly, to nasal sampling, there can be a certain amount of discomfort while performing this test. Do not use if you have had any form of medical operation previously (e. g. wisdom tooth removal, etc. ). Spit tubing refers to sampling by saliva administered into a test vial. It is suitable for smaller children. This method also tends to be the most inaccurate,[8] X Research source but is a great option for little kids, since it causes no discomfort. However, it is usually not recommended due to its difficulty to administer and provide results.
Do not touch the tip of the swab from here on out. This limits the possibility of contamination and guarantees more accurate results. Before testing, make sure that you are not allergic to the Q-tip materials. The tips are hypoallergenic, but a small number of people may still be allergic, potentially causing them to sneeze during the test and cause dangerous consequences. Note that both oral samples and nasal samples must be conducted with the same swab, so do not test the swab immediately after use: all specimens have to be collected onto it before you administer the test.
The length of the swab you insert into the nostril will be greatly different in children and minors. Try not to pressure a child’s nose too much if you are helping them administer the test. This may cause damage to the nose. Instead, insert only a little at a time, asking the child when they feel resistance and adjusting the swab based on their description. Explain to them beforehand what resistance feels like, and that the test is meant to be uncomfortable.
Take it slowly and avoid any sudden or violent actions to ensure the safety of the person being tested. Remember that the nose is a very sensitive organ and should be treated delicately to avoid injury.
If you are helping children execute this maneuver, get them to hold still until the swab is completely out of their nostril. Often, it can feel like the swab has left the nostril when in reality it has only been lifted from resistance.
Brushing your teeth could also help to make sure no food residue remains, as it is important not to contaminate the specimen.
If you have had your tonsils removed, simply place the swab where they should have been. If you are suffering from tonsil stones, infection, or any other form of tonsil medical issues, place the swab relatively closer to the lips, but on the same horizontal axis as your tonsils.
A gag reflex is a good thing, simply telling you that the swab is in place. To collect mucus for testing, the swab should be able to trigger a gag reflex. This is your signal that the swab is in place. When helping children, tell them to sick out their tongue and make the “ahhh” sound. Look for an arch at the back of the mouth and position the swab on it. [20] X Research source Make sure they do not stop making the sound, as this helps to eliminate the gag reflex and allow you to execute the move easily.
If you are concerned about your gag reflex activating, make the “ahh” as you would at a dentist. The sound comes from the throat and helps to eliminate the gag reflex, allowing for easier collection.
Be sure not to touch the inside of the funnel or tube during this process. You want to make sure that the sample is exposed to as little outside material as possible.
If you seem to be unable to locate the scale line or unsure which of the numbered markers is the scaled line, consult the instructions card, it should include a description on which number value to spit to. [26] X Research source Make sure not to move on until all the spit left in the funnel has drained into the test vial.
The instructions card outlines the rest of the procedure, which will vary from product to product. [29] X Research source
Note that some products require a mobile phone application to view results. . [30] X Research source As per the instructions card, visit the company’s app or website system to view your results using the product code from the box your test came with. [31] X Research source
