Invalid Result
Reader light pattern: Two solid purple lights once the test has completed
An invalid result does not necessarily mean that the test or reader is defective. An invalid result means that the test result cannot be verified because the internal control in the test failed. This is most commonly caused by either inadequate sampling, or by “messy” samples.
Swab samples are less likely to produce invalid results, and are also more sensitive. Additionally, saliva varies from person-to-person and can be challenging to collect properly. For those reasons, Aptitude recommends using swab samples exclusively, if possible.
*Important: If you receive an Invalid Result, you must discard the test and use a new test kit. Do not rerun the same test.
Nasal Swab Samples
When nasal swab samples produce invalid results, it is usually because the swab was not inserted far enough into the nose, or was not rotated firmly enough along the nostril walls. It can also be due to excessive mucus on the swab. To prevent this, we recommend the following:
- Make sure you insert the swab far enough into the nose. Be sure to rotate the swab firmly enough along the walls of the nostril, 5x each.
- Blow your nose before collecting your sample. Too much mucus or other debris from the nose can lead to an invalid result.
- Wait at least one hour after nasal spray before collecting your sample. The recent use of nasal sprays, neti pots, etc. can lead to an invalid result.
- Avoid swabbing anywhere but the nasal cavity.
Saliva Samples
When saliva samples produce invalid results, it is most commonly because the sample contains things that interfere with the test (food, phlegm, excess bubbles from improper collection, etc.). To minimize this risk when using saliva samples, please carefully follow our important saliva collection tips.
Please note, saliva is different from spit. Be sure to read the tips below to ensure that a proper sample is collected:
- Drink a glass of water 30 minutes before the test - this helps you get hydrated and produce enough saliva.
- For 30 minutes before collection, please do not eat, drink, chew gum, smoke, or use any oral hygiene products.
- When you are ready to collect saliva, try thinking about citrus fruits to stimulate saliva. You would feel the saliva pool in your mouth - that’s a sign that you are doing it right!
- After pooling enough saliva in your mouth, gently drool the saliva into the collector.
- Please do NOT spit - that will introduce bubbles and mucus, which may lead to invalid results.
- Please do NOT cough up phlegm - that will cause invalid results.
- Please fill the collector until the saliva is right under the black line. If you drool too much saliva into the collector, make sure to pour out the excess fluid.
- It may take a few tries to get this right. If you have difficulties, we are here to help!
Should you need additional instructions for proper sample collection or test usage, please view our tutorial videos here:
Swab Tutorial Video: Metrix® COVID-19 Test - Swab
Saliva Tutorial Video: Metrix® COVID-19 Test - Saliva
Still have questions? Please email our Customer Support team at support@aptitudemetrix.com. Our support hours are Monday - Friday from 9am - 5pm Pacific Time (excluding holidays).