Specimen Requirements

Pinworm Paddle Method:

1. Using the Starplex® Sterile Pinworm Paddle supplied, remove cap from transport tube. Attached to the cap is a clear polystyrene paddle with 1 side coated with a non-toxic mildly adhesive material. This side is marked “sticky side.” Do not touch this surface.

2. Press the sticky side surface against the perianal skin with moderate pressure. The ideal time for this procedure is early in the morning before arising and before emptying the bowels.

3. Insert the paddle back into the tube, and assuring the cap is firmly snapped into place.

4. Label container with patient’s name (first and last), specimen source, and date and time of collection.

5. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature.

Tape Method:

1. Using gloves, collect specimen first thing in morning before patient has bathed or used toilet.

2. Using a piece of clear, not frosted, cellophane tape approximately 1 inch or 10 cm long, collect specimen as follows:

A. Hold tape between thumb and forefingers with sticky side facing outward.

B. Press sticky side of tape against skin across anal opening with even, thorough pressure.

C. Gently place sticky side of tape down against surface of a clear glass slide.

D. Label slide with patient’s name.

E. Submit tapes and slides to laboratory in a plastic bag at ambient temperature.

F. One preparation should be taken daily for 4 to 6 consecutive days, with negative results, before a patient can be considered free from infection.

Note: If Scotch® tape is used to collect specimen, it should be applied to microscope slide and sent to Microbiology.