How to Administer a Rapid Antigen Test

Step by Step Instructions

1. -Wash your hands  –  Wash your hands thoroughly and clean your testing area.
2. Add 3 drops of buffer into a test tube – place in an upright secure location for later use.
3. Swab both nostrils – Open the swab packaging (do not touch the cotton end) and insert it into your nostril at a 90°angle. Push the swab 3cm into your posterior nasopharynx and rotate 5 times. Repeat in other nostril.
4. Place Swab into Test Tube – Place the swab into the test tube that was prepared earlier. Mix the swab into the buffer solution properly,  pressing the sides of the tube gently. Do this for 1 minute, aiming to remove as much residue as possible.
5. Preforming a test – Dispose of your swab and place the nosel-lid on the test-tube. Turn the test tube upside -down and push 3 drops of the solution on the cassette well. 
6. Interpreting results – Leave the sample for 15 minutes and then view the cassette results. Do not interpret results after a 25-minute period has elapsed as they will be incorrect. View the image on this page to assist with interpreting results.