Specimen Requirements

Sampling of surface area can introduce colonizing

bacteria not involved in infection process.

Specimen Type: Aspirate

Sources: Abscess, Cellulitis, Decubitus Ulcer, Incision, Lesion

Collection Container/Tube: Syringe

Container/Tube: Anaerobic Transport Device or Sterile Container
Specimen Volume: Entire Specimen, ≥1 mL

Collection Instructions:

1. Label specimen with patient’s full name, date of birth, date & 

    time of collection, collection site and person collecting.
2. Remove surface exudate by wiping with sterile saline or 

     70% alcohol. Allow to dry.

3. Collect pus/aspirated material from closed abscess

     using syringe.

4. Specimen should be transported at room temperature.

Specimen Type: Swab

Sources: Abscess, Cellulitis, Decubitus Ulcer, Incision, or Lesion
Specimen Volume: Entire Specimen

Collection Instructions: 

1. Label specimen with patient’s full name, date of birth, date & 

     time of collection, collection site and person collecting.

2. For most open lesions and abscesses, remove superficial

    flora by decontaminating skin before collecting a specimen

     from advancing margin or base.

3. Specimen should be transported at room temperature.