Vaginal/endocervical swab

Sample collection conditions

Sexually transmitted disease
Vaginal and/or cervical discharge, abnormal pain, in particular if fever or sepsis

Tasklist / steps to perform the sampling

The patient is placed in the dorsal recumbent position on the examining table with flexed thighs and knees, the feet resting on the stirrups, and the limbs and lower abdomen draped with a sheet
Gently separate the labia using gloved fingers and carefully insert a sterile swab into the vaginal opening
Obtain secretions from mucosal membrane of vaginal vault
Insert swab into swab transport system
Appearance and smell of the discharge on the speculum is noted

The patient is placed in the dorsal recumbent position on the examining table with flexed thighs and knees, the feet resting on the stirrups, and the limbs and lower abdomen draped with a sheet
Moisten the speculum with warm water
Gently separate the labia using gloved fingers and carefully insert the speculum into the vaginal opening
Adjust angle and depth of insertion based on the patient’s comfort and anatomic response
Gently open the blades to separate the vaginal walls and have a clear view of the cervix and surrounding tissues
Wipe away excessive amounts of secretion or discharge with a swab, and discard
Insert sterile swab 2-3 cm into the cervical canal
Rotate the swab for 5-10 seconds to permit absorption of the exsudate
Insert swab into swab transport system
Carefully close the bladesand gently remove the speculum
Appearance and smell of the discharge on the speculum is noted

Material & equipment