Specimen Collection and Handling

Submit only one of the following specimens:

VAGINAL SWAB (Preferred Female Specimen):

1. Collect using the Aptima® Multitest Swab Specimen Collection Kit (Orange Label Tube).

2. Insert dry swab into vagina and rotate 10-30 seconds to ensure adequate sampling.

3. Transfer swab into the tube and break the shaft at the scored line.

4. Leave swab in the transport medium and replace the tube cap securely to prevent leaking.

5. Label the transport tube according to policy and transport to the lab for testing.

6. Send refrigerated.

URINE (Accepted, but not preferred specimen type):

1. Patient must not have urinated for at least 2 hours prior to sampling.

2. Collect 10-50 mL of first catch urine (first part of the stream) in a sterile container without preservatives.

3. Seal the container and label according to policy.

4. Send refrigerated.

5. Specimen source is required on the request form for processing.