Specimen Requirements

Obtain specimen using BD ESwab ^TM or *Copan Transport Swab (Dacron flocked) as follows:

1. Aseptically unscrew and remove the swab provided in the BD ESwab collection and Transport System.  Be  sure not to touch below the red breakpoint  line ot avoid contamination.

2. Tilt patient’s head back to assist in opening of mouth as wide as possible.

3. Depress tongue with a tongue depressor so swab does not touch tongue.

4. If patient has complained of 1 spot being sore, swab that area well.

5. In 1 continuous motion:

     A. Swab 1 tonsillar area up then down.

     B. Move to back of throat as far down as possible and swab there.

     C. Move to other tonsillar area and swab.

     D. Swab behind uvula and remove swab.

6. Insert the swab into the tube and bend the swab shaft at the breakpoint indicated by the red line marked on  the swab shaft, against the tube to break the shaft.   Discard the broken handle part of the swab shaft. 

7. Label tubes with patient’s name (first and last), MR# or DOB,  date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.

    * Return Copan Swab to sterile tube.

8. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only.

Note:  Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

       ESwab is acceptable for up to 48 hours after collection