Methods for lateral flow-based biological sample collection

A method, comprising:

• providing a capillary sample collector having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end of the capillary sample collector has a dispensing opening;
• collecting a fluid sample at the distal end of the capillary sample collector, wherein the capillary sample collector is configured to limit an amount of the fluid sample to a predefined volume;
• applying a cap to the distal end of the capillary sample so as to form an air-tight seal over the distal end of the capillary sample collector;
• wherein the cap contains a sponge that contains a reagent fluid, and
• wherein application of the cap to the distal end of the capillary sample collector drives the reagent fluid into the distal end of the capillary sample collector, whereby the reagent fluid drives the fluid sample toward the dispensing opening;
• and
• dispensing the fluid sample and at least a portion of the reagent fluid through the dispensing opening and onto a test strip sample pad,
• wherein a flow rate of the sample fluid within the test strip sample pad in a direction toward a conjugate pad is greater than a flow rate of the sample fluid within the test strip sample pad in a direction away from the conjugate pad.