Collection Instructions

For ThinPrep collection, expel the fluid into the vial. Label container with 2 patient identifiers (Full Name and DOB and/or MRN is acceptable),specimen source, and collection date. For smear preparation, place a drop of needle aspirate onto glass slide. With the narrow edge of a clean slide make a thin smear. Fix immediately in 95% alcohol or spray with spray fixative. Rinse needle with 10-20 mL saline and expel rinse material into glass tube or rinse in the Cytolyt vial. Label frosted slides with 2 patinet identifiers and specimen source. Specimens should be transported immediately to the Pathology Department located on the second floor of the hospital.

If an infectious process is suspected, appropriate culture media should be inoculated at the time of the procedure and delivered immediately to the Phlebotomy Dispatch Unit located on the first floor of the hospital.