Most people who suspect that they have HIV don't want to go to a health center to get tested.
But thanks to Oraquick, the first FDA-approved HIV test kit, people can now get tested right at the confines of their home.
This kit is a do-it-yourself and rapid-testing procedure that can be done anywhere.
As of now, only clinics and hospitals are allowed to distribute the product, but you can get one for less than $60.
So if you're uncomfortable with the traditional ways of getting tested, go ahead and buy yourself this kit.
But to ensure accuracy of results, make sure to follow the instructions properly.
Instructions / Steps in Using an Over-the-Counter HIV Test Kit 1.
Prepare the materials.
Oraquick comes with a pouch that contains the following materials: a developer solution bottle, a test device, and a test stand.
Make sure that all of these materials are complete.
2.
Collect specimen.
Before you start collecting your saliva specimen, make sure that you have not eaten anything for at least 15 or 20 minutes.
If you did, you have to wait for at least 30 minutes before you start with this procedure.
To begin, remove the test device from the package or pouch.
Handle the device with care, and check if there is an absorbent packet that comes with the device.
If there is no packet in sight, it's best to use another one.
Put the device's flap head in between the upper lip and upper gum.
Make sure to swab only the gums, and be careful not to include your cheeks.
Swab both the upper and lower gums.
2.
Conduct the test.
When enough specimen is collected, put the flap head of the test device into the developer solution bottle.
After twenty minutes, the result can be read.
3.
Interpret the results.
If a purple line appears above the "C" mark and no line appears above the "T" mark, the result is said to be "non-reactive.
" If two lines appear in both marks, the patient is said to be HIV positive.
Results are said to be invalid if one of the following occurs.
1.
If no line appears in the results window after twenty minutes 2.
If the background has a red color, which makes the results difficult to read 3.
If the lines do not appear directly above the "C" or "T" mark The HIV test kit is not 100% accurate.
So if you have doubts about the result (whether positive or negative) of the test, you can always go to the nearest health center for a more accurate testing procedure.