FAQ – Blood Group Self-Test

1. General information

Are home blood group tests reliable when they are used correctly?
Yes, when used correctly they are reliable for personal information, but they do not replace a laboratory result for clinical decisions.

Will the NHS or a UK blood service accept this home test as official proof of my blood group?
No, only certified laboratory tests are accepted for medical records or blood donation.

Why do some online sources show the character “0” instead of the letter “O” for the ABO blood group?
The correct ABO designation is the letter “O”; a “0” sometimes appears as a typographic habit but does not change the meaning.

Does this home test also determine my Rhesus (Rh) status in addition to my ABO group?
Yes, it shows both your ABO group (A, B, AB, or O) and your Rh status (positive or negative).

Is this home test covered or recognised by UK healthcare services for clinical use?
No, personal self-testing is not recognised for clinical use; official purposes require a laboratory test.

2. Use & instructions

Does taking the sample hurt, and how much blood do I need for the test to work properly?
It is just a quick fingertip lance and one small drop of blood is sufficient.

At what exact time after mixing should I read the result to ensure an accurate interpretation?
You should read the result at around 40 seconds after mixing, as specified in the leaflet.

Is it acceptable to use a small drop of clean tap water for the dilution step in this test?
Yes, a tiny drop of clean water is acceptable if you follow the instructions.

What should I do if I accidentally place the blood drop in the wrong circle on the card?
You should start again with a fresh card and follow the correct order.

Can a single test card be safely shared by more than one person during testing?
No, each person must use their own card; sharing is not permitted.

3. Reliability & quality

Why do some demonstration videos show different outcomes for similar tests performed at home?
Differences in technique, sample volume, and timing can affect agglutination, so it is important to follow the leaflet precisely.

Under which circumstances is a test result considered invalid and requires a repeat test?
A result is invalid if the control field agglutinates, and you should repeat the test with a new card.

What shelf life should I expect for an unused home blood group test?
The typical shelf life is 18 to 24 months, which is printed on the pack.

Is this home blood group test designed to be reusable after a first attempt?
No, this product is single-use only and must not be reused.

Does this product carry CE marking for self-testing in the United Kingdom?
Yes, it is a CE self-test product; however, clinical use still requires a laboratory result.

4. Results & next steps

Can I use a smartphone application to interpret the card instead of reading it visually?
No, an app is not required; the intended method is a visual reading within the specified time window.

Does having an O-negative result automatically make me a universal blood donor?
Donation eligibility and compatibility are determined solely by official blood services and laboratories.

Will my result from this home test be officially recognised if I am abroad?
No, only laboratory certificates are officially recognised in other countries.

How can I obtain an official certificate of my blood group for medical or administrative use?
You can obtain one through your GP, a hospital, or an accredited laboratory.

What does agglutination mean in the context of reading this test card?
Agglutination is the visible clumping of red blood cells caused by an antigen–antibody reaction that indicates specific blood group antigens.

5. Medical advice & aftercare

Should I use this home test during pregnancy if I want information about my blood group?
You may use it for general information, but any clinical decision during pregnancy requires a laboratory test.

Is it safe to perform this test if I am currently taking blood-thinning medication?
It is not recommended for people on anticoagulation therapy or for those with haemophilia.

From what minimum age is it appropriate for a child to be tested at home?
From about 12 months, and the procedure should be performed by an adult.

What steps should I take if I experience prolonged bleeding after the fingertip prick?
Apply firm pressure with sterile gauze and seek medical advice if bleeding continues.

What hygiene and disposal practices should I follow after completing the test?
Follow the leaflet instructions, do not reuse any materials, and dispose of used items with household waste.

6. Ordering & delivery

Will the package be shipped in discreet packaging that does not reveal the product?
Yes, delivery is in neutral packaging with no product reference.

How quickly can I expect tracked delivery within the United Kingdom for this product?
Shipping is tracked and discreet, and the current delivery estimate is shown at checkout.

Can I return this product after opening the package for any reason?
No, opened self-tests cannot be returned for hygiene and safety reasons.

Are there delivery charges that I should be aware of before completing my order?
Yes, delivery charges are clearly shown at checkout and shipments are tracked.

7. Safety & privacy

Do you store or process my test results in any digital system when I use this product at home?
No, your result appears only on your physical test card and is not stored digitally.

How are my personal details handled under UK GDPR when I place an order?
Your details are used only to process your order and are handled in compliance with UK GDPR.

Will my billing statement display a product name that could reveal what I purchased?
No, billing is discreet and does not include the product name.

Is this product safe for home use when I carefully follow the instructions?
Yes, it is safe for home use when the leaflet is followed and the product carries CE marking.

Can I share a photo of my result with my doctor for advice or confirmation?
You can share a photo, but your doctor may still require a laboratory confirmation for clinical purposes.

8. Trust & reviews

Is The Tester a trustworthy place to purchase home blood group tests online?
Yes, The Tester offers a secure SSL website, discreet delivery, and consistently positive customer feedback.

Is UK-based customer support available if I have questions about my order or my test?
Yes, UK-based support is available and current response times are listed on the contact page.