Necessary Information

Collection time is required.

Specimen Required

If multiple specimens are collected, submit each Salivette under a separate order number.

Patient Preparation:

1. Patient should not brush teeth, eat, drink, or take any oral medication for at least 60 minutes before specimen collection.

2. Have patient rinse mouth thoroughly with water for 1 to 5 seconds. Wait 10 minutes before collecting the specimen to avoid contamination of the saliva by an interfering substance.

Supplies: Cortisol, Saliva Collection Kit (T514)

Container/Tube: Sarstedt Salivette

Specimen Volume: 1.5 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Provide patient with a Saliva Collection Kit (Salivette) containing the Cortisol and Cortisone - Saliva Collection Instructions and ask them to follow the instructions as written.

2. If performing a late-night salivary cortisol (LNSC) test, specimen should be collected immediately prior to going to bed. If patient is undergoing assessment for adrenal insufficiency, specimen should be collected immediately after waking up. The patient should follow their normal sleeping schedule. Record collection time on the Cortisol and Cortisone - Saliva Collection Instructions sheet.

3. Instruct patient to return Cortisol and Cortisone - Saliva Collection Instructions with the appropriately labeled Salivette to the laboratory.

Additional Information: Reference intervals are available for LNSC testing (immediately before going to bed) and immediately after waking for assessment of adrenal insufficiency.