Specimen Requirements

Container/Tube: Slide

Specimen Volume: Single slide containing smears from ectocervical, endocervical, and transition zone areas of cervix

Forms: Request for Gyn Cytopathology

Collection Instructions:

1. Using a lead pencil, label frosted end of a glass slide with patient’s name and origin of site prior to specimen collection. Observe Universal Precautions for collecting and handling specimens.

2. Obtain specimen with a spatula and endocervical brush. Vaginal pool (posterior fornix) fluid may also be smeared on same slide. Lubricant cannot be used to insert speculum as this obscures diagnostic cells.
3. After specimen is collected, immediately fix specimen by spraying slide with PAP fixative. Hold container inches from slide while spraying fixative to avoid “blasting” cells. Allow to air dry completely.
4. Place slide in a plastic slide holder.