Collection Instructions

NOTE: Aspirated material is preferable to swab specimens because the chances of contamination by surface bacteria are decreased and adequate volume is available for optimal organism recovery.

DEEP WOUNDS OR ABSCESSES:

1. Disinfect surface of the wound with 70% alcohol and then with anti-septic iodine solution. Allow disinfectant to dry before collecting specimen.
2. Using a 3 to 5mL syringe with a 22 to 23 gauge needle, aspirate the deepest portion of the lesion.
3. Aseptically transfer aspirated material to sterile, leak proof container.
4. If swab must be used, obtain an Aerobic Transport System swab.
5. Remove cap and sample deep within the wound, avoiding any surface contamination.
6. Return swab to culturette sleeve, crush ampule of transport media and gently push cap down until swab is saturated with the media.

SUPERFICIAL WOUNDS:

1. Disinfect surface of the wound with 70% alcohol and then with anti-septic iodine solution. Allow disinfectant to dry before collecting specimen.
2. Aspirate or swab deepest part of wound rather than lesion surface, following guidelines for deep wounds.

SURGICALLY OBTAINED SAMPLES:

1. Submit fluid or pus in sterile, leak proof container; use an Aerobic Transport System for swab specimens.

ULCERS:

1. Disinfect surface of the wound with 70% alcohol and then with anti-septic iodine solution. Allow disinfectant to dry before collecting specimen.
2. Remove any overlying debris.
3. Aspirate exudate from or swab base of ulcer, following guidelines for deep wounds.