Purpose
To standardize receipt and examination of endocervical swab specimens.
Scope
This procedure applies to trained microbiology laboratory personnel working within an approved quality-management and biosafety system.
Principle
Direct microscopy, culture or other validated testing methods are selected according to the requested clinical investigation and organism-specific workflow.
Specimen / Test Material
Properly collected and labelled endocervical swab transported in the approved system.
Equipment and Materials
- Approved microscopy materials
- Validated staining reagents where indicated
- Appropriate culture or molecular systems according to the requested test
Procedure
- Verify specimen identity and anatomical source.
- Confirm specimen suitability and transport conditions.
- Perform the requested validated examination.
- Process microscopy, culture or other testing according to the organism-specific SOP.
- Review and report results using approved criteria.
Quality Control and Quality Assurance
Apply method-specific controls and monitor specimen adequacy.
Reporting
Report only findings supported by the validated method and appropriate clinical reporting policy.
Safety
Use risk-based biosafety practices, appropriate personal protective equipment and approved decontamination and waste-disposal procedures. Treat clinical specimens and cultures according to the laboratory's biological risk assessment.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO): Toolkit for Standard Operating Procedures for Bacteriology, Mycology and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing.
- WHO: Laboratory Biosafety Manual, 4th edition.
- WHO guidance on collection, packaging and transport of infectious substances.
- EUCAST methodology and quality-control guidance for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, where applicable.
- Current locally approved laboratory procedures and validated manufacturer instructions.