Specimen Requirements

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Gum, Lip, Mouth, or Tongue

1. Collect specimen the affected area using a BD ESwab^TM  Be sure not to touch below the red breakpoint line to avoid contamination.

2. Aseptically unscrew and remove the cap from the tube

3. Collect the specimen

4. 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.

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

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

7. 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

Nasopharynx

1.Collect the specimen from the affected area using the swab provided in the BD ESwab Collection and Transport System. Be sure not to touch below the red breakpoint line to avoid contamination.
2. Aseptically unscrew and remove the cap from the tube.

3. Collect the specimen:
      A. Gently insert swab into posterior nasopharynx via nose.
      B. Rotate swab slowly for 5 seconds to absorb secretions.
      C. Remove swab.
4. 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.
5. Replace the cap on the tube and secure it tightly.
6. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), MR# or DOB, date and actual time of collection and type of specimen.
7. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only.
Note:  Specimen source is required on request form for processing.
       ESwab is acceptable for 48 hours after collection