Specimen Required

Patient Preparation: Do not collect throat swab specimens immediately after use of antiseptic mouthwash.

Specimen Type: Throat swab

Supplies: BD E-Swab (T853)

Container/Tube:

Preferred: BD Liquid Amies Elution Swab (ESwab)

Acceptable: Copan Liquid Amies Elution Swab (ESwab)

Specimen Volume: Entire collection/1 ESwab

Collection Instructions:

1. Must be collected and transported using the ESwab collection kit.

2. Using a tongue blade to hold the tongue down, firmly rub the swab over the tonsils, posterior pharynx, and any areas of inflammation with exudate. Ensure that areas with exudate or inflammation are swabbed.

3. Avoid the tongue, teeth, and gums as the swab is withdrawn.

4. Insert the swab back into the ESwab transport tube and break the swab at the indicated score line.

5. Label specimen according to policy.

6. Send refrigerated. Do not freeze.