Blood Group Test ABO and Rhesus

It is essential that everyone know their own blood group and that of their family members. There are many occasions when knowing your blood group could be important for example if you or a member of your family required an urgent blood transfusion it would be useful to know your blood group in advance. If it was an uncommon group it would allow the hospital valuable time to ensure adequate supplies.

If you travel overseas carrying a blood group card could prove invaluable. Accidents and other emergencies can often be dealt with more efficiently knowing the blood group of the person or persons involved.

How accurate is this test?

The test is accurate and will detect the common blood grouping system ABOAB and Rhesus(D). Unusual blood groups or rare sub-types will not be detected by this method. Further investigation by a blood transfusion laboratory will be necessary to identify such groups.

Please note : This test should not be used to determine blood type for transfusion purposes.

Test contents:

Instruction leaflet
Blood group test card x 2 (inside foil pouch)
Blood group result card x 2
Lancets X 2
Plastic pipette
Alcohol swab x 2
Applicators x 8 4 for each test.

Precautions

• Each card can only be used once
• Do not use this test if the foil pouch has been opened
• Perform test at room temperature

Instructions for use:

Read the entire instructions before carrying out the test. Ensure the applicators (eldonsticks)
are only used for stirring and spreading the blood. You may find this test easier to carry out if you have a friend or family member assist you.

1. Wash your hands before carrying out the test and again after carrying out the test.
2. Open the foil pouch containing the test cards the 2 tests are on the one card so you need to cut the tests into 2 single cards. Using a pair of scissors cut the cards in half down the line in the middle of the two. Place the card on a table or flat surface.
3. Lay out the applicators (eldonsticks) ready for use.
4. Fill a small cup with tap water and using the plastic pipette draw a small volume of the tap water into the plastic pipette. You draw the water by simply holding the small thin end in the water and squeezing the top part.
5. With the test card still on a flat surface release one drop of water onto the coloured dry material inside the first circle (Anti-A). Continue dropping a small drop of water into each of the other 3 circles.
6. Wipe a fingertip with the alcohol impregnated tissue provided and allow it to dry.
7. Remove the small protective cap from the end of the lancet.
8. Place the lancet against the end of the finger and press the button in one quick movement.
9. Place a drop of blood on the tip of an eldonstick the drop should cover the whole circular surface of the eldonstick. Massage the finger from the bottom to the top to encourage bloodflow.
10. Place the eldonstick with the drop of blood into the first circle (Anti-A). The blood should touch the water already present. Gently press the side of the eldonstick head against the card and stir in the water and blood mixture until the coloured dry material has dissolved.
11. Repeat this procedure for the other 3 circles making sure you use a new eldonstick for each circle. You should NEVER transfer liquid from one circle to another.
12. Once all 4 circles are complete gently tilt the whole card vertically on its bottom edge and keep this position for 10 seconds. You will see the blood flowing slowly to the bottom of the circle. Repeat this procedure tilting the card on the 3 other sides.
13. As soon as you have finished tilting read and record the results immediately.