Specimen Requirements

See Swab Collection and Transport Guide in Special Instructions for additional information.

Specimen source is required.

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Specimen Type: Canal

Container/Tube: Swab transport system (White or Blue cap ESwab or Green cap NPG swab)

Specimen Volume: Swab

Collection Instructions:

1. Cleanse external canal with mild antiseptic.
2. Insert sterile funnel and swab, or aspirate specimen from eardrum or beyond.
3. If eardrum is not perforated, specimen should be collected by a physician trained in this procedure.
4. Label swab with patient’s name (first, last, and middle initial), medical record number (if appropriate), date of birth and/or Social Security number, and date and time of collection.

Specimen Type: Drainage

Container/Tube: Swab transport system (White or Blue cap ESwab or Green cap NPG swab)

Specimen Volume: Swab

Collection Instructions:

1. Cleanse external canal with mild antiseptic.
2. Swab, scrape, or aspirate specimen from active margin, preferably including fresh secretion from deeper areas.

3. Label swab with patient’s name (first, last, and middle initial), medical record number (if appropriate), date of birth and/or Social Security number, and date and time of collection.