Vaginosis Panel Collection

         Specimen collection is a critical step. Personnel collecting vaginal fluid specimens should be well-trained to minimize the possibility of inadequate specimens. For specimen collection, use only the Affirm VPIII Ambient Temperature Transport System, the Affirm VPIII Sample Collection Set or the swabs provided in the Affirm VPIII Microbial Identification Test Kit. Separate swabs should be used for other tests, e.g. culture or microscopic slide samples.

Vaginal Sample Collection

A. Open the seal on outer plastic pouch of Affirm VPIII Ambient Temperature Transport System (ATTS) and remove all components.

B. Tear open the foil pouch and remove the ATTS Reagent Dropper. Break the ampule in the ATTS  Reagent Dropper by fimly squeezing vial with finger and thumb.  Dispense reagent from the ATTS Reagent Dropper into the Sample Collection Tube.

C. Place the patient in position for a pelvic examination. Insert a speculum into the vagina to permit visualization of the posterior vaginal fornix.

 D. Using the sterile swab, obtain a sample from the posterior vaginal fornix. Twist or roll the swab against the vaginal wall two or three times, ensuring the entire circumference of the swab has touched the vaginal wall. Swab the lateral vaginal wall while removing the swab.

E. Immediately place the swab into the Sample Collection Tube containing the ATTS Reagent.

F. With the swab touching the BOTTOM of the collection tube, grasp the pre-scored handle of the swab just above the top of the tube and bend until the swab breaks. When the swab is fully inserted into the collection tube, the score mark on the swab is approximately 1 cm above the top of the collection tube. Discard the broken handle into an infectious waste container.

 G. Place the cap over the exposed end of the swab and firmly press the cap onto the tube. The cap will “snap” onto the tube when it is properly seated.

H. Label the Sample Collection Tube, including the date and time of collection.