Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Non sputum sites such as throat or epiglottis
Container/Tube: ESwab collection & transport system, Amies gel tube (Lawson #450094) intended for SHMG POC testing when confirmatory culture is desired, or 1 mL tube with liquid Amies media (Lawson #139748) paired with rayon swab (Lawson #141229). 

Collection 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, specimen is unacceptable if received without fluid or swab in the transport tube.

Specimen Transport Temperature: Ambient

NOTE: The ESwab fluid maintains the viability of diverse bacteria. 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.

NOTE: The Liquid Amies Media and Rayon Swab do not come in a kit and need to be ordered separately. Swab will need to be cut to fit the tube.