Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Aspirate

Sources: Abscess, Cellulitis, Decubitus Ulcer, Incision, Lesion

Collection Container/Tube: Syringe

Container/Tube: Anaerobic Transport Device or Sterile Container
Specimen Volume: Entire Specimen, ≥1 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Label specimen with patient’s full name, date of birth, date & time of collection, collection site and person collecting.
2. Remove surface exudate by wiping with sterile saline. Allow to dry.

3. Collect pus/aspirated material from closed abscess

     using syringe.

4. Specimen should be transported at room temperature.

Specimen Type: Culturette Swab

Sources: Abscess, Cellulitis, Decubitus Ulcer, Incision, or Lesion
Specimen Volume: Entire Specimen

Collection Instructions: 

1. Label specimen with patient’s full name, date of birth, date &  time of collection, collection site and person collecting.

2. Debridement may be required prior to culture being obtained.  Rinse wound with sterile normal saline to remove surface debris, necrotic tissue, and contaminants.  The swab should be pressed into the wound to obtain fluid, avoiding areas where blood is present.

3. Specimen should be transported at room temperature.