Specimen Requirements

Maximum storage of specimen is 24 hours at ambient temperature, but for the optimal detection of Trichomonas the specimen must arrive within 2 hours of collection.

1. Wipe away excessive amount of secretions or discharge.

2. Collect secretions from mucosal membrane of vaginal vault with a sterile swab.

3. Break swab into a sterile, leakproof tube containing 1 mL of sterile saline or liquid Amies (ESwab). Tube must not contain any additives.

4. Label tube with patient’s information, date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.
5. Forward promptly.
Note:

1. Trichomonas vaginalis is most easily detected when the organism is motile. Extended storage of specimen (beyond 2 hours) will decrease motility of organism, therefore, making organism more difficult to detect. Extended storage will also increase bacterial numbers.

2. Specimen will not be processed if transport/storage times are exceeded.