Anemia is a global health issue that affects over one billion people and contributes to maternal mortality. Low-resource areas face a dual challenge: high prevalence of anemia and inability to access testing methods. The Falling Drop method has been developed by our lab to quantify hemoglobin concentration and assess anemia by timing the descent of venous blood in a copper sulfate column, without the need for electricity or batteries. This research aims to optimize this method by evaluating the use of capillary blood to reduce variance and the need for six trials for each test, assessing copper sulfate stability to determine shelf life in tropical climates, and implementing an automated digital timer to improve efficiency. The Falling Drop method was performed on both venous and capillary blood samples (fingertip) by dispensing 44 microliters of blood in a copper sulfate column. Copper sulfate stability was assessed for 32 weeks among three solutions: solution prepared fresh on day of testing, solution incubated at room temperature, and solution incubated at 37.7°C to mimic tropical temperatures. Capillary blood yielded higher standard deviations than venous blood and proved challenging to use. Copper sulfate stability testing showed no clear point of degradation over the 32-week period. The timing device successfully sensed and timed blood droplet descent. This research supports the use of venous blood collected in potassium oxalate, the use of copper sulfate solution for 32-weeks stored unrefrigerated at ambient temperatures commonly encountered in tropical climates (37.7°C), and the use of automated timing to improve efficiency.

Dr. Tim R. Randolph (tim.randolph@health.slu.edu) has been greatly influential. He has an inspiring passion for his work, care for student learning and well-being, dedication to effective mentorship, attention to detail, patience with new learners, innovative and intelligent way of thinking, and clear and helpful teaching style. Dr. Randolph is a true gift to SLU, and every student who crosses paths with him, whether it is through research or class or a volunteering experience, will be greatly benefited by his contagious passion for science and his kind and caring mentorship.