Specimen Requirements

For optimal interpretation, Pap smears should be collected near
the middle of the menstrual cycle. No douching or sexual
intercourse for 24 hours prior to specimen collection.

Forms: Pathology requisition; include
patient’s full name, date of birth, specimen source, date of
service, ICD-9 code, and pertinent clinical history

Specimen Type: Cervix

Container/Tube: Broom collection device;
PreservCyt solution vial

Collection Instructions:

1. Obtain adequate specimen of cervix.

2. Rinse broom into PreservCyt solution vial by pushing
broom into bottom of vial 10 times, forcing bristles apart.

3. As final step, swirl broom vigorously to further release
material.

4. Discard broom.

5. Tighten cap on vial.

6. Label vial with patient’s full name, date of
birth, date of collection, and source of specimen.

Additional Information: Causes for
rejection include improper labeling or vial leakage due to
insufficient cap tightening.

Specimen Type: Ectocervix and endocervix

Container/Tube: Endocervical brush/spatula
collection device

Collection Instructions:

1. Obtain adequate specimen of ectocervix using spatula.

2. Rinse spatula into PreservCyt solution by swirling spatula
vigorously in vial 10 times.

3. Discard spatula.

4. Obtain adequate specimen from endocervix using brush.

5. Rinse brush into PreservCyt vial by rotating brush 10 times
while pushing against side of vial.

6. As final step, swirl brush vigorously to further release
material.

7. Discard brush.

8. Tighten cap on vial.

9. Label vial with patient’s full name, date of birth,
date of collection, and source of specimen.

Additional Information: Causes for
rejection include improper labeling or vial leakage due to
insufficient cap tightening.