Syphilis PCR Lesion Collection order#: 390047

This supply pack is sufficient for six syphilis PCR tests containing six vials of universal transport media (UTM, 3 mL) with large swabs.

Instructions

Note: Print and post these instructions in your specimen collection rooms. Follow the steps below to collect skin or mucosal lesion swabs for syphilis PCR testing:

1. Gently remove necrotic material or crusts from the lesion with sterile gauze. If desired, wet the gauze with sterile preservative-free saline.
2. Open the collection kit and verify that the kit has not expired, the collection tube is not leaking and the swab peel-pouch is intact. Otherwise, the kit must NOT be used.
3. Label the transport media following PHO’s Criteria for Acceptance of Specimens.
4. Open the swab peel-pouch and remove the swab without touching the portion from the breakpoint to the swab tip. NOTE: Do not pre-bend the swab before collecting the specimen.
5. The swab tip must contact the lesion site only. Gently express the clear exudate from the lesion. Firmly press and roll the sterile swab along the base of the lesion.
6. Insert the swab into the collection tube until the breakpoint is level with the tube opening. Gently bend the swab shaft to break at the break point. Gently rotate the swab shaft to complete the breakage and remove the upper part of the swab shaft. If needed, cut the swab shaft with sterile scissors.
7. Discard the broken handle part of the swab shaft into an approved medical waste disposal container.
8. Screw the cap back onto the test tube and ensure it is tightly sealed to prevent leakage.
9. Place the specimen tube in the biohazard bag and seal. Place the completed General Test Requisition in the pouch at the front of the biohazard bag.
10. Store specimens at 2-8 °C and ship refrigerated to PHO. If transport is expected to be delayed for more than 48 hours, store specimens at -20°C and ship on dry ice.

Refer to Syphilis PCR Testing Information for more details.