Specimen Requirements

Submit only one of the following specimens:

Preferred

Specimen Type: Sputum

Container/Tube: Sterile container

Volume: 10 mL
Minimum volume: 5 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. For Sputum specimens, 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.

Specimen Transport Temperature: Ambient

Acceptable

Specimen Type: Throat swab

Container/Tube: ESwab

Collection Instructions: Indicate source.

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.

Specimen Transport Temperature: Refrigerated