Substudy 1: Usage of the self-test

In a confidential room supervised by an observer, each participant received the kit that included the test, its accessories (disinfectant wipe, compress…) and information on how to use the kit. The observer confirmed the different steps that were followed by the participant on a standardized sheet.

Each participant had the option of performing the test alone or with assistance from the observer. This assistance was provided using the same procedure available by the hotline that was established with the commercialization of the test in France (September 15, 2015). Fifteen minutes later, the participant was invited to leave the room and to fill in the satisfaction questionnaire (Table 2). In this substudy, the participant was not allowed to read the results of their test because the device was not yet authorized to be used by a non-professional at the time. Next, the observer photographed the test to document the correct or incorrect usage of the test (if the test is performed correctly, a control line will appear). Finally, the participant moved to the next room with a trained staff member who performed the regular HIV rapid test, including pre- and post-counseling.