Tag Archives: mycology specimen collection

• 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.

• Document the following:

1. Patient identifiers (e.g. name, age, medical record number);
2. Sample identifiers (e.g. swab, smear, scrape, urine, blood);
3. Location and type (e.g. lower limb wound, nail scraping, and hair sample);
4. Date and time of collection;
5. Deviations from standard protocol during collection (e.g. not performed under aseptic conditions if large traumatic wound);
6. 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.