Sample Processing Policy
STI TEST LONDON SAMPLE PROCESSING POLICY
Last updated: 13 July 2026
1. Purpose
This policy explains sample processing and repeat testing.
It applies to clinic and home samples.
2. Sample types
Samples may include:
- Blood.
- Urine.
- Vaginal swabs.
- Throat swabs.
- Rectal swabs.
- Genital swabs.
- Lesion swabs.
- Other biological samples.
The ordered test determines the sample required.
3. Customer responsibilities
Follow all supplied instructions.
Provide accurate personal details.
Use the correct sample container.
Collect from the correct anatomical site.
Return samples promptly.
Follow storage instructions carefully.
4. Collection timing
Some samples require specific timing.
You may need to avoid urinating beforehand.
You may also need to avoid washing.
Product instructions may specify preparation.
Incorrect timing may reduce reliability.
5. Anatomical sites
Infections may occur at different sites.
One sample may not detect every site.
You must collect every ordered sample.
Do not substitute one swab for another.
6. Blood samples
Blood samples may become unsuitable because of:
- Haemolysis.
- Clotting.
- Insufficient volume.
- Incorrect tube use.
- Leakage.
- Delayed transport.
- Temperature exposure.
Repeat collection may become necessary.
7. Urine samples
Urine tests may require first-catch urine.
Midstream samples may be unsuitable for some tests.
Insufficient volume may prevent analysis.
Overfilled containers may leak.
8. Swab samples
Swabs must contact the correct area.
Insufficient contact may reduce detection.
Swabs must enter the correct transport tube.
Broken or dry swabs may be rejected.
9. Sample rejection
Samples may be rejected because of:
- Incorrect labelling.
- Missing information.
- Leakage.
- Contamination.
- Insufficient material.
- Incorrect sample type.
- Delayed return.
- Laboratory quality concerns.
10. Window periods
A suitable sample can still be collected too early.
Early testing may not detect recent infection.
Repeat testing may therefore be recommended.
This does not necessarily indicate laboratory failure.
11. Lost or damaged samples
We will investigate reported sample problems.
We may contact couriers or laboratories.
Appropriate remedies may include:
- Replacement kits.
- Repeat collection.
- Another appointment.
- Reprocessing.
- Refunds or price reductions.
12. Laboratory processing
Processing may include:
- Registration.
- Sample preparation.
- Molecular testing.
- Antibody testing.
- Antigen testing.
- Culture.
- Confirmation testing.
- Scientific review.
- Reporting.
13. Reactive or equivocal results
Some results require confirmation.
Terms may include:
- Reactive.
- Equivocal.
- Indeterminate.
- Borderline.
- Inconclusive.
These results are not always final diagnoses.
Further samples may be needed.
14. Repeat testing
Repeat testing may involve:
- Reanalysis.
- Another sample.
- Another anatomical site.
- Confirmation testing.
- Another test method.
- Specialist referral.
15. Replacement kits
Free replacements may apply where:
- Kits arrive damaged.
- Essential components are missing.
- Samples are lost by providers.
- Correctly collected samples fail unexpectedly.
- Laboratories request recollection.
16. Additional charges
Charges may apply where customers:
- Ignore clear instructions.
- Use expired kits.
- Provide incorrect information.
- Miss appointments.
- Request unnecessary repetition.
Charges will be explained beforehand.
17. Turnaround times
Turnaround times remain estimates.
They begin after suitable laboratory receipt.
Confirmation testing may extend reporting.
18. Medical urgency
Do not await routine results during emergencies.
Seek urgent care for severe symptoms.
19. Privacy
We handle sample information confidentially.
Identity checks may occur before result release.
20. Statutory rights
Nothing within this policy affects statutory rights.
21. Contact details
Email: info@stitest.london
Telephone: 0207 871 3015