Gynecologic Pap Test, Liquid-based Preparation

When using the ThinPrep® method, a gynecologic specimen is collected using a brush and plastic spatula as a cervical sampling system.

Insert the brush into the endocervical canal until only the bottommost fibers are exposed. Slowly rotate the brush ¹/₄ to ¹/₂ turn in one direction. Do not over-rotate the brush. Then, rotate the brush in the PreservCyt® solution 10 times while pushing against the wall of the ThinPrep® vial. Swirl the brush vigorously to release additional material. Discard the brush. Obtain an adequate sample from the ectocervix using a plastic spatula. Swirl the spatula vigorously in the PreservCyt® vial 10 times, and discard the spatula. Tighten the cap on the ThinPrep® PreservCyt® solution container so that the torque line on the cap passes the torque line on the vial.

When using the TriPath SurePath™ method, the cervix (broom) or the endocervical brush/plastic spatula combination collection device(s) must be used with the broom/brush being inserted into the cervical os and rotated five times.

Once collected, the removable head(s) of the collection device(s) is dropped into the CytoRich™ preservative fluid in the TriPath SurePath™ collection vial. Also, the cervix brush and Wallach brush may be used in obtaining a ThinPrep® specimen, but the brush is rinsed vigorously in the vial and discarded; the brush head is not placed in the ThinPrep® PreservCyt® vial.

Record the patient's name and ID number on the vial, and place it and the test request form in a specimen bag for transport to the laboratory.

Maintain specimen at room temperature. Specimen must be processed for testing within 21 days of collection.

Improperly labeled vial; specimen more than 21 days old (from collection date) in liquid-based preservative; specimen submitted in vial that expired according to manufacturer's label; frozen specimen