Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Nasal

Container/Tube: Glass slides in slide container

Specimen Volume: 2-3 slides

Collection Instructions:

1. Label frosted ends of 2 to 3 glass slides with patient’s name (first and last), medical record number and/or date of birth, and type of specimen prior to obtaining smears.
2. Have patient blow nose into a piece of waxed paper.
3. If no secretion is available from blowing nose, gently insert swab about 1 inch into nare and rotate swab against nasal wall. Remove swab.
4. Gently smear waxed paper or roll swab onto slides and air dry.

5. Label slide container with patient’s name (first and last), medical record number, date of collection, and type of specimen.