Purpose
To standardize examination of high vaginal swab specimens.
Scope
This procedure applies to trained microbiology laboratory personnel working within an approved quality-management and biosafety system.
Principle
Direct microscopy and appropriate culture methods may demonstrate inflammatory cells, microorganisms and clinically relevant growth patterns in vaginal specimens.
Specimen / Test Material
Properly labelled high vaginal swab collected using an approved collection device.
Equipment and Materials
- Microscope
- Clean slides
- Validated wet-mount and staining reagents
- Appropriate culture media where indicated
Procedure
- Verify specimen source and identification.
- Assess specimen suitability.
- Perform direct examination according to the validated workflow.
- Prepare microscopy and/or staining preparations where indicated.
- Inoculate appropriate culture media where required.
- Identify significant findings and report using approved terminology.
Quality Control and Quality Assurance
Monitor microscopy, staining, media and control performance as applicable.
Reporting
Report microscopy and culture findings according to validated laboratory criteria.
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.