Specimen Requirements

Collect specimen from the affected area using a BD ESwab^TM  as follows:
1. Take swab for culture before application of topical anesthetics because topical anesthetics possess

     antimicrobial activity.

2. Cleanse skin around eye with mild antiseptic.

3. Gently remove makeup and ointment with sterile cotton and saline.

4. Collect the specimen using the swab provided in the BD ESwab Collection and Transport System.Pass  

    swab  2 times over lower conjunctiva.  Avoid eyelid border and lashes (culture these separately in a similar   fashion, if indicated). Be sure not to touch below the red breakpoint line to avoid contamination.

5. Aseptically unscrew and remove the cap from the tube.

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. Replace the cap on the tube and secure it tightly.

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

9. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only.
Note:  Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

           ESwab is acceptable up to 48 hours after collection