Specimen Collection and Handling

You must follow all directions carefully to get an accurate reading of the results. Placenta previa and performing digital exams prior to sample collection can lead to inaccurate results. The test should not be used earlier than 6 hours after the removal of any disinfectant solutions or medicines from the vagina.

1. Take the solvent vial by its cap and shake well to make sure all liquid in the vial has dropped on the bottom. Open the solvent vial and put it in a vertical position.

2. To collect a sample from the surface of the vagina use the sterile polyester swab provided. Remove the sterile swab from its package following instructions on the package. The polyester tip should not touch anything prior to insertion into vagina. Hold the swab in the middle of the stick and, while a patient is lying flat on her back, carefully insert the polyester tip of the swab into the vagina until the fingers contact the skin no more than 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) deep. Withdraw the swab from the vagina AFTER 1 MINUTE.

3. Place the polyester tip into the vial and rinse the swab in the solvent by rotating for one minute.

4. Remove and dispose of the swab.

5. Patient sample must be tested within 30 minutes after collection. If the patient sample is not tested within 30 minutes and sample storage is necessary, tightly close the sample vial and place in a refrigerator for no more than 6 hours before testing.