About Salimetrics

Often considered a scientific collaborator, Salimetrics stands by investigators in support of their specific aims. From academic researchers, industry leading pharmaceuticals, contract research organizations and key opinion leaders, to students and beginning researchers, Salimetrics collaborates with investigators in both the academic and diagnostic fields across many scientific disciplines. We help researchers be successful. We help them incorporate the best methods, and that helps them be instrumental in revealing a new discovery, and becoming the next generation of key opinion leaders in their respective fields. We will always be committed to building and maintaining long-lasting relationships with investigators interested in pushing the scientific knowledge boundaries.

Learn more about Salimetrics CoreLab+ services, global partnerships, and read more about our commitment to supporting better research here: https://salimetrics.com/company/

About Salimetrics Collection Devices

Correct biospecimen collection is critical for obtaining consistent, accurate results. Salimetrics is committed to setting a global standard for collection devices and techniques, while also developing innovative methods to improve participant compliance. Our biosample collection devices are carefully engineered and rigorously tested to reduce or eliminate variability, ensuring reliable results across diverse participant groups. Not all collection devices are the same—Salimetrics collection devices are designed, manufactured and validated to work seamlessly with all of our assays and laboratory services, and we provide clear guidance on which device is best suited for your study’s specific analytes.

Learn more about Salimetrics’ Dried Blood Spot Collection Packs.

What’s In This Guide?

1. Introduction
2. What to Consider Before DBS Collection
   • Sample Volume and Frequency
   • Participant groups
3. Preparing for Dried Blood Spot Collection
4. How to Collect Dried Blood Spots
   • Materials Needed
   • Best Practices
   • Sampling Instructions
   • Number of Spots (Sample Volume)
5. Post-Collection Instructions
6. Combining Saliva and DBS Samples
7. Troubleshooting
8. References

Introduction

This handbook provides essential guidance for the collection, processing, storage, and shipment of dried blood spot (DBS) samples. Designed for both new and experienced researchers, it includes step-by-step instructions, best practices, and troubleshooting tips to help ensure sample integrity and minimize pre-analytical errors. By standardizing DBS procedures across teams and sites, it supports the collection of consistent, high-quality samples for downstream analysis. The handbook also addresses labeling, documentation, and storage offering practical solutions to common field challenges—ultimately promoting reliable data collection and adherence to study protocols in DBS-based research.

Accurate and consistent DBS collection is essential for ensuring reliable results and maintaining analyte integrity. Proper collection techniques such as obtaining adequate blood volume, using the correct lancet method, allowing samples to dry thoroughly, and maintaining a clean environment-support the generation of high-quality, usable samples and trustworthy data. Adhering to standardized procedures helps ensure consistency, minimize variability, and preserve biomarker stability across sites and timepoints.

To assist investigators in maximizing the integrity of their saliva samples, we offer the following advice. However, researchers should also be aware that;

1. 1. Knowledge about dried blood spot testing is rapidly growing and being revised. The technical team at Salimetrics maintains the latest information and provides Ask an Expert support as part of our mission to support the best bioscience.
   2. We advise consulting the literature on the analytes to be measured, and when the available literature appears inadequate, we strongly recommend a pilot study. It is ultimately each investigator’s responsibility to make decisions about the best methods to use for their specific study.
   3. For an additional discussion and current updates, we recommend signing up for Biobehavioral Research Newsletter.

What to Consider Before Collecting Dried Blood Spot (DBS) Samples

Sample Volume and Frequency

• For Cytokines/CRP/HbA1c (duplicate testing): A minimum of two full, well-sized spots is required, with an additional spot recommended for potential retesting (total of three spots).

• For more than three biomarkers: It is recommended to fill all six spots on the DBS card to ensure sufficient sample volume for testing and any potential retests.

Preparing for Dried Blood Spot (DBS) Collection

Environmental setup – In-Clinic and At-Home Collection:

• Clean Workspace: Ensure a sanitary, well-lit, and flat surface for placing materials. Avoid collecting samples in high-humidity environments.
• Materials Checklist: Include the DBS participant kit, collection card labeled with participant ID, instructions, and/or visual guide.
• Sample Drying Area: Place the DBS card on a dry, elevated surface (e.g., a paper towel on a counter) and allow it to air dry on a flat surface (horizontally) for at least 2–4 hours (4 hrs minimum is highly recommended). Avoid touching the blood spots or placing the card in direct sunlight or near moisture.
• Quiet Environment: Encourage participants to remain calm and seated during collection.

How to Collect Dried Blood Spots (DBS)

To ensure the integrity of dried blood spot (DBS) samples, strict sterility and quality control measures must be followed throughout the collection process.

• Use only sterile, single-use lancets and avoid direct contact with the filter paper.
• Collect free-flowing blood directly onto the card, ensuring that the spots are uniformly filled without smearing or layering.
• Allow the cards to air dry for at least 3–4 hours on a clean, horizontal surface, protected from heat, moisture, and contamination.
• Once dry, store the cards in gas-impermeable bags with desiccants.
• Proper labeling, secure packaging, and controlled storage or shipping conditions are critical to maintaining sample quality.
• Upon receipt in the lab, samples should be inspected for completeness, dryness, and any signs of contamination or damage.

Materials Needed:

1. Salimetrics Dreid Blood Spots Participant Collection Packs
2. Bar-Coded Labels

Best Practices for DBS Collection

Guidelines for optimal blood flow: To promote optimal blood flow during DBS collection, ensure the participant is well-hydrated, relaxed, and warm hands using warm water, a hand warmer, or by rubbing their hands together. Select the middle or ring finger and massage from the palm to the fingertip. Position the hand below heart level on a stable surface to aid circulation. After puncturing with a sterile lancet, allow blood to flow freely by applying gentle, rhythmic pressure near the site. Avoid excessive squeezing, as it may dilute the sample with tissue fluid and affect quality.

Proper lancet use & biohazard precautions: Follow safety protocols to protect both participants and collector. Use sterile, single-use lancets and dispose of them in a sharp container. Never reuse materials and treat all blood as potentially infectious. Handle cards by the edges and discard contaminated items in biohazard waste. These practices reduce exposure risk and maintain a safe collection environment.

Basic DBS Sample Collection Workflow

1. Clean hands
2. Prick finger with lancet
3. Fill the appropriate number of “spots” or circles
4. Clean and bandage finger
5. Air dry sample card for a minimum of 2-4 hrs (4+ hrs recommended)
6. Seal card in protective pouch before return shipping

Read the Step-by-Step DBS Sample Collection Instructions

Or – Watch the DBS Sample Collection Instruction Video:

Number of Spots to Collect

For Cytokines/CRP/HbA1c (duplicate testing): A minimum of two full, well-sized spots is required, with an additional spot recommended for potential retesting (total of three spots).

For more than three biomarkers: It is recommended to fill all six spots on the DBS card to ensure sufficient sample volume for testing and any potential retests.

Each spot should be fully filled in for accurate analysis, similar to the example below:

Post-Collection Instructions

Drying and Storing DBS Cards

• Drying time, environment (dust-free, temperature control)
• Provide tips for drying during transport (if RA leaves with a sample that has not had a chance to dry for 4+ hours)

After collection, air dry DBS cards flat for at least 2-4 hours (4+ hours recommended) in a clean, dust-free area—away from sunlight, humidity, and heat. Do not seal damp cards, as trapped moisture can cause degradation. Once fully dry, place them in low-gas-permeability bags with a desiccant. Multiple cards can be bundled together and are then ready for storage or shipment.

Short-term & Long-term Storage

Short-term storage (up to one week): The cards can be kept in the refrigerator stored in a low-gas-permeability bag with desiccant.

Long-term storage (up to one year): Samples should be kept frozen at or below −20°C, stored in a low-gas-permeability bag with desiccant.

Combining Dried Blood Spot (DBS) and Salivary Analytes

Combining dried blood spot (DBS) and saliva collection allows for comprehensive biomarker analysis, capturing both systemic and localized physiological indicators. Read the Better Biobehavioral Science: More Research is Needed bulletin for more information.

• If your saliva targets aren’t stress-sensitive (e.g., insulin, total IgG), order is less critical, but saliva-first is generally simpler and safer. This also avoids the potential for any blood contamination.
• Follow cold chain management based on biomarkers of interest, leading with the most sensitive analyte. If you need additional information, please Ask an Expert for details.

Troubleshooting Dried Blood Spot (DBS) Collections

• Incomplete Spots:
  To avoid this, ensure that blood drops fall freely onto the card without allowing the paper to touch the skin. Allow each drop to fully absorb before adding another, and avoid overlapping drops. Warming the participant’s hands beforehand can help improve circulation. It’s important not to rush and take time to ensure each circle is fully and evenly filled.

• Low Blood Volume:
  To enhance blood flow, warm the participant’s hands using warm water, a hand warmer, or by having them rub their hands together. Gently massage the hand from the base of the palm to the fingertip before and during collection. Keep the hand below heart level and supported on a stable surface. During collection, apply light, rhythmic pressure near the puncture site rather than squeezing, which can introduce tissue fluid.

• Participant Resistance:
  To address this, clearly and calmly explain the purpose and benefits of the DBS collection. Reassure the participant that it is quick and minimally invasive and provide space for questions or concerns. A quiet, comfortable environment can help ease anxiety. For children, distraction techniques or support from a parent or guardian can be effective in reducing stress and encouraging cooperation.