Specimen Requirements

Specimen must arrive within 2 hours of collection.

Collect specimen using sterile technique. Submit specimen in a sterile, leakproof container. If transport is delayed, an aerobic/anaerobic transport tube (A.C.T. I) is supplied and should be used.
Note:  1. For solid specimens, remove cap and quickly place the specimen on top of the agar. Aseptically, push the specimen at least 1/2 inch into the agar. Replace cap and quickly tighten to minimize exposure to air.
2. Do not use A.C.T. I tubes if there is evidence of contamination, more than 3 mm of the medium is oxidized (indicated by a pink or lavender color), the expiration date has passed, the agar is broken, or there are other signs of deterioration.
3. Maximum storage of specimen in A.C.T. I tube is 24 hours at ambient temperature.