Collection Instructions

Multiple specimen types, submit one 

Specimen Type: Body Fluid

Container/Tube: Sterile container or ESwab

Collection Instructions:

• Indicate specimen type and source.
• See ESwab collection below.

Specimen Transport Temperature: Ambient

Specimen Type: Biopsy specimen

Container/Tube: Sterile container or ESwab

Collection Instructions:

• Indicate specimen type and source.
• See ESwab collection below.

Specimen Transport Temperature: Ambient

Specimen Type: Swab, Cervix/Vaginal Swab

Container/Tube: ESwab

Collection Instructions:

• Fungal culture with staining may be used to detect yeast from a genital swab not accepted for bacterial vaginosis Gram staining.
• See ESwab collection below.

Specimen Transport Temperature: Ambient

Specimen Type: Sputum, bronc lavage or brush

Container/Tube: Sterile container

Sputum Collection Instructions:

1. Morning collection is preferred.
2. Collect four or five deep coughs in a sterile specimen container.
3. Place cap on the container.
4. Label with orders (include source: sputum).
5. Deliver to lab immediately.
6. Transport Temperature: Ambient (Inpatients) Refrigerated (Outpatients)

Volume: 1.0 mL

Minimum volume: 0.5 mL

Collection Instructions: Indicate specimen type and source.

Specimen Transport Temperature: Ambient

ESwab instructions:

1. Open the peel pouch and remove the contents. Aseptically unscrew and remove the cap from the ESwab.
2. Place the tube in a secure position so as not to allow the liquid to leak out of the tube.
3. Remove the swab. Collect the patient's sample using the swab.
4. Insert the swab back into the tube of liquid, all the way to the bottom of the tube.
5. Holding the swab shaft close to the rim of the tube, break the applicator shaft at the color breakpoint indication line.
6. Screw the cap on tightly to prevent leakage. Discard the broken handle of the shaft into an approved medical waste disposal container.
7. Write the patient's information (Name and Date of Birth) on the tube or apply a label with patient’s information. Indicate source.
8. Send specimen to the Laboratory.

• Note: The ESwab fluid maintains the viability of diverse bacteria, yeast and fungus. Do not send a dry ESwab as this will lead to unsatisfactory results. If the tube spills its contents prior to inserting the swab, the liquid is non-toxic. Simply put the swab into another tube before sending it to the laboratory and discard the spilled tube.