Which of the following is NOT a guideline when collecting NMS?

The guideline that suggests touching the circle lightly with an alcohol swab is not appropriate when collecting Non-Medical Specimens (NMS). In the context of specimen collection for testing, the use of an alcohol swab can introduce moisture and potentially contaminate the specimen. The goal is to ensure that the specimen is collected properly, and the surface where the specimen is placed should remain clean and free from contaminants that could affect test results.

On the other hand, the other guidelines provided focus on ensuring quality and accuracy in specimen collection and handling. Allowing blood drops to soak through the paper circle evenly is crucial for ensuring that the specimen is adequately absorbed for testing. Also, ensuring all documentation is correct is essential as it guarantees that the specimen can be traced and accurately identified throughout the testing process. Furthermore, drying the specimen completely in a horizontal position helps to prevent the blood from spreading irregularly and ensures that it is preserved correctly for analysis.

These practices are vital to maintaining the integrity of the specimen and the reliability of test results.