| 1 | Preparation | Read the instructions, check the expiry date, and allow the test components to reach room temperature. | Use a clean, dry, well-lit area. A commonly specified range is 15–30°C, unless the kit instructions state otherwise. | The cassette, tube, swab, and reagent are intact and at room temperature. | No damaged packaging, leakage, or expired components. |
| 2 | Sample Collection | Collect the specimen using the supplied swab and follow the specified collection depth and rotation procedure. | Collection time is normally less than 1 minute per nostril for a nasal specimen; follow the specific instructions provided with the test. | The swab tip is adequately exposed to the specimen without visible damage. | Use the specimen immediately unless the instructions specify a validated storage period. |
| 3 | Extraction | Insert the swab into the extraction tube, immerse the tip in the buffer, and rotate or stir it while squeezing the tube. | A common procedure uses approximately 10–15 rotations and a short contact time; the kit-specific procedure takes priority. | The specimen is released into the extraction buffer and the liquid remains in the tube. | The swab is removed without spilling the extracted sample. |
| 4 | Test Application | Attach the dropper or nozzle and add the specified number of drops to the sample well marked “S.” | Many lateral-flow procedures use 3–4 drops, but the validated number for the particular cassette must be followed. | The liquid enters the membrane and begins moving across the test window. | Drops are placed only in the sample well, not on the result window. |
| 5 | Reaction Period | Place the cassette on a level surface and wait without moving it. | Read within the stated window, commonly around 15–20 minutes. Do not interpret the result after the maximum read time. | A control line should develop, with or without a test line. | The control line must be visible before interpreting the test line. |
| 6 | Result Interpretation | Compare the visible lines with the interpretation diagram supplied with the test. | Interpret only during the approved reading interval. | Control line only: negative; control and test lines: presumptive positive; no control line: invalid. | Any presumptive positive or invalid result should be handled according to local public-health or laboratory guidance. |
| 7 | Quality and Disposal | Record the result, disinfect the work area, and dispose of the used cassette, swab, and tube as potentially contaminated waste. | Complete disposal immediately after interpretation. | The result, test time, and any unusual condition are documented. | Follow applicable local waste-handling and infection-control requirements. |