- Always consult the SOP manual of the diagnostic laboratory for the particular specimen and test.
- Aim to collect sample in a sterile kit under aseptic conditions.
- Ensure that you have the appropriate swab kit (alcohol swabs, gloves, transportation tube and media).
- If it is a special or non-routine test, coordinate with the laboratory about specific requirements for collection and handling.
- Patient identifiers (e.g. name, age, medical record number);
- Sample identifiers (e.g. swab, smear, scrape, urine, blood);
- Location and type (e.g. lower limb wound, nail scraping, and hair sample);
- Date and time of collection;
- Deviations from standard protocol during collection (e.g. not performed under aseptic conditions if large traumatic wound);
- Relevant clinical information including recent and current antimicrobial therapy.
- Ensure that adequate material (at least 2 ml of bodily fluids) is sent to the laboratory for proper yield. An inadequate specimen may lead to a false negative result.
- Transport the sample within 2 hours and process promptly for optimum recovery of fungi.
- If a delay is anticipated, refrigerate specimens at 4°C (exceptions: blood, bone marrow, CSF and sterile tissues should be stored at 35-37°C).
- Ideally, collect specimens as soon as symptoms appear and whenever possible before antifungal therapy is initiated.
- Staff must take all precautions to avoid inadvertent contamination of sample as well as for their own personal safety.
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