Advertisement
Table 2 Number of RDT information inserts (n = 40) addressing critical steps in procedure and interpretation
| Items addressed in procedure section | Number (%) |
|---|---|
| Bring the RDT device and buffer to room temperature | 32 (80.0) |
| Check the integrity of the device package | 9 (22.5) |
| Check expiry date | 27 (67.5) |
| Use the device immediately after opening | 28 (70.0) |
| Place the device on a level surface | 0 (0.0) |
| Check the desiccant for signs of exposure to humidity | 11 (27.5) |
| Write down sample identification | 3 (7.5) |
| Wipe finger with alcohol | 26 (65.0) |
| Allow the finger to dry before pricking | 12 (30.0) |
| Hold the transfer device (loop, straw) vertical | 8 (20.0) |
| Hold the buffer vial vertical | 12 (30.0) |
| Do not to use another buffer than the one provided with the kit | 9 (22.5) |
| Use an adequate light source for reading | 3 (7.5) |
| Items addressed in interpretation section | Number (%) |
| All possible line combinations for invalid test results are mentioned | 12 (30.0) |
| All possible test line combinations for positive test results are mentioned | 31 (77.5) |
| Interpretation of a faint test line as positive is mentioned | 8 (20.0) |
| Causes of false negative results are mentioned, in particular low parasite densities | 11 (27.5) |
| Causes of false positive results are mentioned, e.g. presence of the rheumatoid factor | 3 (7.5) |
| Persistence of HRP-2 is mentioned | 19 (47.5) |
| To repeat the test in case of a negative RDT result and persistent suspicion of malaria is mentioned | 1 (2.5) |
