Patient Preparation
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- Refer to manufacturer (Hologic) instructions provided with collection kits for specific patient preparation information.
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| Specimen Collection |
- Refer to appropriate specimen collection kit package insert for collection instructions.
- Only the following specimen types will be accepted for testing:
- External cutaneous vesicle/lesion scrapings
- Anogenital swab
- Specimens must be collected using the Aptima Multitest Swab Specimen Collection Kit (Orange tube)
- Do not touch or mark upon the collection vial’s pierceable foil cap.
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| Specimen Labeling |
- Specimen must be labeled with at least two unique patient identifiers and specimen source and match accompanying test order.
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| Specimen Processing |
- After collection, place patient sample in biohazard bag with absorbent material using care not to touch the foil cap.
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| Specimen Storage and Preservation |
- Transport and store the specimen in the Aptima Multitest Swab Transport Media (STM) at 2°C to 30°C until tested.
- Specimens must be tested with the Aptima HSV 1 & 2 assay within 36 days of collection. Specimens stored at -20°C to -70°C for up to 36 days may also be tested with the Aptima HSV 1 & 2 assay.
- Aptima swab specimens may be frozen and thawed up to 3 times prior to testing.
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| Specimen Transport |
- Specimen must be placed in an individual biohazard bag with absorbent material and should be shipped to the laboratory on the day of collection for same day/next day receipt and processing.
- Store and transport at 2 - 30°C; all specimens must arrive within 36 days of collection.
- All infectious substance shipments must conform to U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR 49 C.F.R. Parts 171-180).
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| Specimen Acceptability and Rejection |
- Specimens received in improper collection kits will be rejected.
- Specimens received that indicate invalid collection sites (e.g. throat, oral, mouth, tongue, mucous, rectal, ocular, nasal, endocervical, etc.) will be rejected.
- Specimens received >36 days post-collection will be rejected.
- If expiration date on collection tube is prior to collection date, specimen will be rejected.
- Specimens received with no swab, two swabs, a cleaning swab, and/or a swab not supplied by Hologic will be rejected.
- Specimens with clerical errors in the lab order or on the specimen tube will be rejected.
- Unlabeled or improperly identified specimens will be rejected.
- Specimens transported or stored at incorrect temperatures will be rejected.
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| Testing Location |
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