Sample collection
Peripheral venous blood samples
BLOOD, SECONDARY, PCT
Peripheral venous blood samples were collected for PCT, ESR, and CRP level assessment. Blood was collected on days 0–2 (baseline), 15 (± 2), and 22 (± 2) after the intervention. Following extraction, sample tubes were secured into primary (zip-lock bag), secondary (insulated bottles), and tertiary packs (insulated box with cooler packs), before being ultimately transported.