This is one of a series of 19 info sheets on HIV testing. For the titles of all info sheets, see info sheet 1. Recent advances in HIV testing technology are increasing the options for HIV testing. Several years ago, the only type of HIV-antibody test available was a blood test done through a doctor's office or an HIV testing clinic.
Today there are different types of tests available, and some can even be done at home.
In addition, rapid tests have become available that can provide test results within 15 minutes. Standard HIV Testing Currently in Canada, the standard procedure for HIV testing involves a trained health-care worker drawing a blood sample from the person getting tested in a clinical setting, usually a physician's office or a testing clinic. A negative result is reported if the EIA is non-reactive. Any blood sample that tests positive, however, undergoes a second, confirmatory test. Only confirmed test results are given to the health-care provider who ordered the test.