GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR KIT
The BioHacking Clinic’s DNA test kits are designed to provide valuable insights into your genetic profile, which can be used to personalise health and wellness strategies.
Whichever kit you require, the information obtained helps in analysing your DNA to understand your unique genetic markers, which can influence various aspects of your health. Accurate sample collection is crucial for ensuring reliable and actionable results.
Follow these instructions carefully to obtain a high-quality sample.
What the Kit Contains
Each DNA test kit includes:
- Swab Tube
- Patient consent form
- Detailed instructions
- ID-labels
- Biohazard bag
- Shipping Courier bag
Importance of Following the Collection Procedure
Proper collection of the DNA sample is essential to avoid contamination and ensure the accuracy of the test results. Adhering to the procedure minimises the risk of incorrect results due to factors like improper handling or contamination. Ensuring a clean and uncontaminated sample is crucial for obtaining accurate and reliable genetic insights.
How to Collect the Sample
Step One
Pre-Sample Preparation
- Avoid Eating or Drinking: Refrain from eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth at least 1 hour before collecting your sample. This prevents any residues or contaminants from affecting the sample.
- Rinse Your Mouth: Rinse your mouth with water prior to sampling to remove any food particles or bacteria.
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Step Two
Sample Collection
- Wash Your Hands and Prepare the Kit: wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to ensure a sterile process. Open the envelope containing the test tube and remove the test tube from the packaging.
- Open the Test Tube: To open the device, hold the test tube with one hand and use your thumb to push the top of the cap above the label. This prepares the test tube for the sample.
- Place the Test Tube: With the cap still on, place the test tube upright on a clean, flat surface. Avoid touching the inside of the tube or cap to prevent contamination.
- Swab Collection: The swab has an absorbent pad at one end. Holding the device by its cap, insert this end of the swab into your mouth, positioning it above the tongue. Close your mouth and keep the swab in place for ten seconds to ensure it is saturated with saliva.
- Swab the Cheek: Move the swab between your cheek and gums. With your other hand, press gently on your cheek and rub the swab back and forth ten times to collect the sample effectively.
- Repeat on the Other Side: Perform the same procedure on the opposite side of your mouth to ensure a thorough sample collection.
- Finalising the Sample: Insert the swab into the test tube and firmly close the cap until you hear a click. This action secures the sample inside the tube for analysis.
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Step Three
Sending sample for analysis
- Insert Consent Form: Ensure that one of the patient consent forms, which is included in the kit, is completed and placed into the Biohazard bag with your sample.
- Affix ID Label: Stick one of the ID labels length-ways (not wrapped around the tube) onto the outside of the swab tube. This label helps in identifying your sample correctly.
- Handle Spare Forms: You will have a spare patient consent form and an additional ID label remaining. Keep these in a safe place for reference or if you need to contact the BioHacking Clinic about your sample.
- Seal and Send: Make sure the Biohazard bag is securely sealed before sending it back. Follow any additional instructions provided by the kit or the clinic for mailing the sample.
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By following these steps, you ensure that your sample is correctly processed and tracked.
ADVICE ON PRECAUTIONS & HANDLING
Following these detailed instructions will help you provide a high-quality sample, ensuring that The BioHacking Clinic’s DNA tests yield accurate and valuable results.
The test kit is designed for single use only. Reusing it can lead to cross-contamination or inaccurate results. There are no special storage instructions. You can store the kit in its original packaging at a temperature between 2°C and 30°C. However, you should avoid overheating, freezing, or incubating the kit.
Do not use the kit if it shows signs of damage, contamination, or if the expiry date has passed. You will need to ensure the protective seal is intact before use. Collect the sample immediately after opening the bag to ensure accuracy. Avoid bending, breaking, or excessively pressing the swab during collection. The swab shaft has a moulded breakpoint for safe handling; do not detach the shaft from the grip or force it.
Your Guide to Taking The DNA Test
