Please follow the instructions carefully when taking your blood sample because if you invalidate the test by not obtaining sufficient blood then you will need to send a further sample. It can be useful to have a second person present to assist you when taking the sample.

Further information

Excess TSH is a substance found in the blood in most but not all people with an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). The test determines the level of TSH in the blood; this test gives the result as a number. The normal level for TSH is between 0.3 - 5.0 mIU/L. Interpretation of your test and medical advice is standard and included in the price of the test.

Taking the test

Finger pricker

Blood collection tube

Packaging for posting

Full Instructions for taking blood sample for TSH test

1. Complete request form and sign (please include date of birth)

2. Ask someone to assist you with taking the sample (they should wear the plastic gloves)

3. Ensure your hands are clean, warm and dry

4. Twist the end off the finger pricker

5. Press finger pricker firmly against finger pulp and pricker will fire (these are once only so do not practice!)

6. Collect blood by gently squeezing finger with finger placed against top of the collection tube, held at 30-45 degrees

7. After about 2 minutes the blood will stop flowing and you will need to repeat the process on a second finger and possibly a third finger to obtain sufficient blood to fill the tube to the black line

8. Remove the lip from the tube and push the red stopper on collection tube

9. Allow 30 minutes for the sample to clot

10. Package and post the sample to Oxford Screening as soon as possible. If possible post on a Monday or Tuesday so we can deal with your sample before the next weekend.

11. Allow 7 days from when we receive your sample to expecting your result  

How to take your finger prick blood sample