Specimen Requirements

Preparation of Patient:

None

Container Type:

BD Affirm ATTS Swab Kit

Specimen Type:

Vaginal swab in collection tube

Vaginal Sample Collection:

1. Place the patient in position for a pelvic examination. Insert a speculum into the vagina to permit visualization of the posterior vaginal fornix. During clinical trials, sites were provided with instructions to use an unlubricated speculum. (See the Interfering Substances section)

2. Using the sterile swab, obtain a sample from the posterior vaginal fornix. Twist or roll the swab against the vaginal wall two or three times, ensuring the entire circumference of the swab has touched the vaginal wall. Swab the lateral vaginal wall while removing the swab.

3. Immediately place the swab into the Sample Collection Tube.

4. With the swab touching the BOTTOM of the collection tube, grasp the pre-scored handle of the swab just above the top of the tube and bend until the swab breaks. When the swab is fully inserted into the collection tube, the score mark on the swab is approximately 1 cm above the top of the collection tube. Discard the broken handle into an infectious waste container.

5. Place the cap over the exposed end of the swab and firmly press the cap onto the tube. The cap will “snap” onto the tube when it is properly seated.

6. Label the Sample Collection Tube with the patient identification information. Include the time the sample was collected

Specimen Handling/Transport:  

Transport ambient room temperature.

Specimen Stability/Storage:

72 hours ambient room temperature or refrigerated 2 - 8^oC