Blood self-sampling devices: innovation, interpretation and implementation in total lab automation

Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (CCLM), vol. 63, pp. 3–13

Abstract

The introduction of the vacuum tube in 1949 revolutionized blood collection, significantly improving sample quality and patient comfort. Over the past 75 years, laboratory diagnostics have evolved drastically, from manual to automated processes, reducing required test volumes by over 1,000 times. Despite these advancements, venous blood collection presents logistical challenges, including centralized scheduling and a large volume of biological waste due to the imbalance between the needed blood volume (often very little) and the collected volume (often in excess). The COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the need for decentralized healthcare solutions and patient empowerment. Capillary blood collection, widely used in point-of-care testing, offers a promising alternative, particularly for patients facing frequently, or difficulties with, venous sampling. The Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands experienced a 15 % reduction in volume of laboratory tests during and after the pandemic, attributed to patient preference for local blood collection and testing. To address these challenges, self-sampling devices are emerging, empowering patients and streamlining sample logistics. However, challenges such as cost, transportation regulations, and sample volume adequacy persists. Robust devices tailored for total lab automation and sustainable practices are crucial for widespread adoption. Despite hurdles, the integration of self-sampling into diagnostic processes is inevitable, heralding a shift towards patient-centered, proactive healthcare. Practical recommendations include robust device design, ease of use, affordability, sustainability, sufficient quality and acceptability by seamless integration into laboratory workflows. Although obstacles remain, self-sampling represents the future of laboratory diagnostics, offering convenience, cost-effectiveness, interoperability and patient empowerment.

Authors 2

1. Dennis C.W. Poland corresponding Aachen Department of Clinical Chemistry Laboratory Medicine

   Leiden University Medical Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine , 4501 Leiden University Medical Center , Leiden , The Netherlands

2. Christa M. Cobbaert Aachen Department of Clinical Chemistry Laboratory Medicine

   Leiden University Medical Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine , 4501 Leiden University Medical Center , Leiden , The Netherlands