Secure DNA Sample Collections Procedures

Paternity Testing is a sensitive and emotional process for many individuals. Understanding the DNA sample collection process is just as important as the genetic testing analysis itself.

Below are detailed instructions on how to collect DNA samples based on your use case scenarios and what to expect from the process.

How To Collect Cheek Buccal Swab Samples?

At-Home DNA Testing Sample Collection Instructions:

1. Complete the chain of custody form enclosed with your sample collection kit. The required sections that must be completed are: Relationship, Name, Date of Birth, Signature, Date of Collection, and Sex. These sections will be highlighted on the chain of custody form.
2. Fill out each Sample Collection Envelope with the name of each tested person as it appears on the Collection Form (Alleged Father, Child, Mother, Sibling etc.), date of collection, date of birth, name of the collector, and initial the back of each envelope. These sections will be highlighted on the sample collection envelopes.
3. There are six swabs in a plastic package. Please use 2 swabs per person (for a total of 4 swabs for 2 people or 6 swabs for 3 people).
4. Remove the first swab by slowly pulling it out of the protective package. Do not touch any part of the cotton tip with your hand and only touch the shaft with your fingers.
5. Swab the inside of the mouth between the cheek and the gum, brushing and twirling for a minimum of 30 seconds. Make sure you air-dry the swab for 30 seconds or more to avoid possible contamination.
6. Repeat this process with the second swab on the other cheek.
7. Place both used swabs into the Sample ID Envelope of the person being tested.
8. Repeat steps 4-7 for each person being tested.
9. Once completed, ensure you have filled out the chain of custody form correctly. Place the chain of custody form and all Sample Collection Envelopes into the prepaid envelope that came with your DNA sample collection kit.
10. Ship the DNA test kit back to the laboratory.

At Home Hair DNA Sample Collection Protocols:

Hair sample collection requires more care than cotton buccal swabs. Proper collection is essential—when done correctly, there’s a 90%+ chance of successful DNA extraction. However, poor collection or storage can reduce that success rate to below 50%.

Collection Requirements

• Quantity: Collect 8–10 hair strands with the root attached (look for the small white bulb at the base of each strand).
• Tools: Use clean tweezers or a hairbrush to remove the strands.
• Storage:
  • Place the hair samples in a clean paper envelope.
  • Clearly write the donor’s name on the envelope.
  • Place the envelope in the provided FedEx return shipping envelope.
• Consent Form: Be sure to complete and include the enclosed consent form.

Important Note: Do not store hair samples in plastic bags or Ziploc bags—these can compromise the sample quality and significantly reduce the chance of successful DNA extraction.

In-Office DNA Collections:

In-office sample collection process

• Schedule an appointment at facility within our network near your home
• Specimen collections will be performed by trained DNA sample collector
• The method of collection is performed by cheek swab

Mobile Collections

On location DNA sample collection process is where a trained DNA specialist will travel to your home, office, hospital room, or anywhere you deem private to collect you sample.

Additional Forensic Collection Methods

Toothbrush sample collections:

How to Collect an Toothbrush Sample?

Collecting a toothbrush sample requires more care than collecting a cotton buccal swab sample. Below are essential steps to ensure successful collection:

1. Usage Duration: Ensure that the toothbrush has been used consistently for a minimum of 6 weeks.
2. Drying the Sample: Air dry the toothbrush sample completely before placing it into a paper envelope.
3. Labeling and Storage: Label the envelope clearly with the person’s name and date of collection. Keep the sample at room temperature. Do not use a plastic bag, as it may trap moisture and contaminate the sample, rendering it unusable for analysis.
4. Shipping the Sample: After collecting your toothbrush sample, place the paper envelope containing the sample in your prepaid shipping envelope to return to the lab.

Earwax collection methods

How to Collect an Earwax Sample?

Unlike collecting a buccal (cheek) swab, collecting an earwax sample requires extra care and attention. Please follow the steps below to ensure a successful collection:

1. Use a clean swab: Always use a fresh, sterile Q-tip or cotton swab to collect the earwax. Do not use the swab directly inside the ear canal.
2. Complete documentation: Fill in all highlighted sections of the chain of custody form.
3. Package the sample correctly:
   • Place the swab with earwax into a paper envelope. Do not use plastic bags (e.g., Ziploc).
   • If using your DNA kit’s sample envelopes, complete the highlighted sections as instructed.
   • If using your own paper envelope, clearly write the name of the person from whom the sample was collected.
4. Prepare for shipment: After packaging, place the envelope(s) into the prepaid shipping envelope provided and return it to the lab.