Collection Instructions

BODY FLUIDS/TISSUE SPECIMENS:

1. Submit specimen in sterile leak-proof container.

EXUDATES:

1. Aspirate pus from ulcer or lesion with sterile syringe or absorb exudates into cotton swab

2. Inject aspirated specimen into sterile container. DO NOT MOISTEN swab

GENITAL SPECIMENS:

1. Aspirate discharge or absorb vaginal/cervical exudate into cotton swab.

2. Inject aspirated specimen into sterile, leak proof container; for swab specimen, DO NOT MOISTEN swab with holding media.

ORAL SPECIMENS:

1. Split a tongue blade in half longitudinally, or use other suitable sterile scraper.

2. Scrape lesion vigorously.

3. Place tongue blade into a sterile, dry container.

PHARYNGEAL SPECIMENS:

1. Obtain an Aerobic Transport System single swab or a dual swab culturette and remove swab from transport tube.

2. Use tongue depressor to hold down patient's tongue so that the throat is well exposed and illuminated.

3. Vigorously rub both swabs over the back of the throat, both tonsils, and any areas of inflammation, exudation, or ulceration.

4. AVOID touching the tongue, cheeks, or lips with the swabs.

5. Replace swabs into Culturette; DO NOT MOISTEN with holding media.

SPUTUM SPECIMENS:

1. First morning specimens are preferable; if possible, have patient rinse mouth and gargle with water prior to specimen collection.

2. Instruct patient to cough DEEPLY into sterile, leak proof container; saliva and/or postnasal discharge are NOT suitable.

3. 24-hour pooled specimens ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE.