Self-Collect Throat Swabs | ACL

Collection Directions

IMPORTANT: YOU MUST HAVE A VALID PATHOLOGY REQUEST FORM TO COMPLETE THIS TEST.
STEP 1: Preparation
1. Wash/sanitise hands.
2. Ensure the swab container is labelled with your surname, first name, date of birth, time and date of collection, site of collection (throat).
3. Ensure your pathology request form is signed and inserted into the specimen bag provided.
STEP 2: Throat Swab
1. Carefully unscrew the lid and remove the swab from the container.
2. Do not touch any part of the swab other than the handle of the swab.
3. Tilt your head back slightly and stick out your tongue.
4. Without touching the sides of the mouth, swab the back of the throat and the tonsil area on both sides of the throat.
5. Withdraw the swab carefully, taking care not to touch any other part of the mouth.
STEP 3: Packaging and Transport
1. Place the labelled swab and signed pathology request form into the specimen bag provided.
2. Drop off your self-collect kit to a Clinical Labs collection centre immediately after sample collection.
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