Specimens should be delivered to the microbiology laboratory as soon as possible. Culture of specimens older than 24 hours may lead to a reduction in recovery of microorganisms. Do not freeze specimens at -20°C, or in a frost-free freezer.
Specimens should be collected in sterile leakproof containers without preservatives. Swab-collected specimens are not recommended.
Swabs:
- ESwab: collect one swab for Gram stain, aerobic and anaerobic cultures, and an additional swab for each additional culture type or stain (e.g. fungus or mycobacteria).
- Other Amies medium swab types: collect one swab for every culture and stain to be ordered.
See ESwab collection video for more information
See Fungus, Direct Wet Prep (KOHFS) for direct stain information.