1. What is included in a kit?

2. What are the recommended storage conditions for the testing device and the specimens?

3. For the dip strips, how far should the strip be dipped into the specimen?

4. How do I know if the test worked properly?

5. How are the results interpreted?

6. What should I do with a positive result?

What is included in a kit?
Kits are available as follows:
Cassette test: 25 tests/kit and one instruction sheet
Dip Strip test: 50 tests/kit and one instruction sheet
What are the recommended storage conditions for the testing device and the specimens?
The kit, including the test strips, cassette or multi-panel devices, can be stored at room temperature 15-30C (59-86F) until the printed expiration date on the label if it remains sealed in its pouch containing desiccant. Serum specimens can be stored at 20C to 28C room temperature for 8 hours, at 2-8C for one week, and at -20C or lower for prolonged storage. For whole blood specimens, it is recommended to use fingerstick sampling. The specimen should be used immediately following collection.
For the dip strips, how far should the strip be dipped into the specimen?
When performing the dip strip method, make sure to dip the test strip into the specimen for at least 10 seconds. Make sure to keep the specimen below the level indicated by the arrows on the test strips.
How do I know if the test worked properly?
The tests have a built-in control line to show the test is working properly. If the Control (C) line does not appear, repeat the test with a new device. External controls may be used according to local laboratory guidelines.
How are the results interpreted?
HBsAg Test
Read the test results between five (5) to fifteen (15) minutes after adding the specimen. The results should not be read after  fifteen(15) minutes.
Negative: The absence of a Test (T) line indicates that there is no Hepatitis B Antigen detected in the specimen or the Hepatitis B Antigen in the specimen is below the level of detection with this assay and the result is negative.
Positive: If the C line and the T line both appear, the result indicates that there is a presence of HBsAg at 1 ng/ml or higher.
Invalid: If no C line develops within five (5) minutes, the test should be voided. In this case, repeat the test with a new testing device.
HCV
Read the test results between five (5) to fifteen (15) minutes after adding the specimen. The results should not be read after fifteen (15) minutes.
Negative: The absence of a Test (T) line indicates that antibodies specific to Hepatitis C antibody were not detected in the specimen and the test result is negative.
Positive: If the C line and the T line both appear, the result indicates that antibodies specific to Hepatitis C are detected in the specimen. When the level of antibodies to HCV is very low, the T line might appear as a faded burgundy line.
Invalid: If no C line develops within five (5) minutes, the test should be voided. In this case, repeat the test with a new testing device.
*Always refer to the product instruction sheet included with each kit for complete testing instructions.
What should I do with a positive result?
Samples with positive results should be confirmed with a more specific method and a medical doctor should be consulted for a positive determination to be made.