Specimen Requirements

Optimal times for specimen collection must be based upon both the type of infectious disease process and ability of laboratory to expertly process specimens. The Microbiology Laboratory is not as well staffed during evening and late night hours. Specimens collected late in the evening often do not produce adequate growth by next morning. STAT testing is available at all times for critical tests including blood cultures, body fluid Gram stains, etc.

Collect specimen using SWUBE^TM disposable paddle (Falcon^TM) or similar method of collection. Specimen should be collected in early a.m. upon waking prior to bathing or use of toilet. Collect specimen as follows:
1. Put on disposable gloves. Pinworm eggs are usually very infectious.
2. Remove paddle from plastic container.
3. Use 1 hand to spread open perianal folds to insure access to eggs concealed in crevices. Pick up pinworm paddle by the cap in other hand, and press sticky side against perianal skin.
4. Replace paddle in plastic container and cap tightly.
5. Remove and discard gloves. Wash hands immediately.

6. Label container with patient’s name, physician’s name, date and time collected, initials of collector, and specimen source.

7. Place container in biohazard transport bag.
8. Forward promptly to the laboratory.

Note: 1. Specimen source is required on request form for processing. 

2. Maximum storage of paddle is 24 hours at ambient temperature.