Cytopathology, Pap Smear, Conventional

Container/Tube: Slides

Collection Instructions:

1. Using a #2 lead pencil pre-label slides with at least 2 sources of patient identification (eg, bar code, patient name, date of birth, or other unique identifier), date of collection, and type and site of specimen.

2. Obtain cervical specimen prior to bimanual examination.
3. It is best to use an unlubricated speculum (saline or warm water may be used).

4. After visualization of cervix is accomplished insert cytobrush into endocervical canal and rotate one half turn.

5. Withdraw cytobrush and spread collected material quickly and evenly onto one half of slide opposite frosted end.

6. Endocervical mucus will prevent air-drying during collection of subsequent cervical component. Using extended-tip spatula, scrape material with spatula from circumference of cervix.

7. Withdraw spatula and spread collected material quickly and evenly onto one half of slide adjacent to frosted end.

8. Smears should be fixed immediately at time of collection using fixative that comes in PAP-PAK Pap Smear Cytology Kit or by immersing slides in a 95% methanol, or ethanol-based fixative. Isopropanol or formalin fixative is not acceptable.

Specimen Type: Vaginal smear

Container/Tube: Slides

Collection Instructions:

1. Using a #2 lead pencil pre-label slides with at least 2 sources of patient identification (eg, bar code, patient name, date of birth, or other unique identifier), date of collection, and type and site of specimen (eg, left lateral vaginal wall, posterior vaginal wall, etc.).

2. Obtain vaginal specimen prior to bimanual examination.
3. It is best to use an unlubricated speculum (saline or warm water may be used).

4. Scrape desired region of lateral vaginal mucosa with spatula.

5. Withdraw spatula and spread material quickly and evenly onto glass slide.

Note:  If cervical/endocervical smears are also obtained, or smears from other areas of vagina are obtained, make certain that each smear is performed on correspondingly-labeled slide.

6. Smears should be fixed immediately at time of collection using fixative that comes in PAP-PAK Pap Smear Cytology Kit or by immersing slide in a 95% methanol or ethanol-based fixative. Isopropanol or formalin fixative is not acceptable.

7. Repeat procedure for additional areas of vagina that appear abnormal.

Note:

1. Complete a SaraPath Diagnostics requisition, include all relevant clinical information, and submit with specimen.

2. Verify patient name and other unique identifiers on requisition match those on specimen.

3. Specimen may be rejected and returned to originating site if any of the following conditions apply:

a. Patient or specimen identification errors or omissions

b. Incorrect specimen submitted for test requested

c. Irreparable slide

d. Use of a nonwater-based lubricant containing carbomers or carbopol polymers may cause issues with processing and interpretation

4. Call SaraPath Diagnostics for:

a. Technical assistance - Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 941-362-8900

b. Courier service or supplies - Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 941-362-8932 or 941-362-8900

Note: STAT Specimen - Call for pick-up of STAT specimen and indicate STAT on requisition.