A vaginal swab is a medical procedure in which a healthcare provider collects a sample of cells and/or discharge from the vagina for diagnostic purposes.
This sample can be used for various tests, including:
- Pap Smear: This is a common test used to screen for cervical cancer or detect any abnormalities in the cervical cells.
- Culture and Sensitivity: A swab may be taken to identify and determine the sensitivity of microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi, in case of a suspected infection.
- STD Testing: Vaginal swabs can be used to test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and others.
- Vaginitis Evaluation: To diagnose and identify the cause of vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, or trichomoniasis.
VAGINAL SWAB/SMEAR
Vaginal specimen (swab) collected for cervical cytology to detect the abnormities
Purpose
- To detect the abnormalities
- To do routine examination
- To diagnose and treat the infection
- To identify carcinogenic cells
- To do cytohormonal study, to know the progesterone status
Indications
Cervical: suspected cervix to exclude premalignant or malignant lesion
Vaginal: vaginitis – to know the specific pathogen and cytohormonal status
General Instructions
- Smear means to make a fine film of vaginal discharge on a slide and send it for examination of the vaginal discharge
- Minimum two slides with smear should be sent to the laboratory
- When trichomonas vaginitis is to be tested the vaginal discharge is collected in a test tube or a hanging drop made on a slides
Preliminary Assessment
Check
- The doctors order for any specific instruction
- General condition and diagnosis of the patient
- Self-care ability of the patient
- Mental status to follow instructions
- Articles available in the unit
Vaginal Swap Collection Procedure
Step 1: collect specimen prior to digital examination or manipulation of the cervix to avoid sample contamination
Step 2: during speculum exam, lightly rotate swab across posterior fornix of the vagina for 10 seconds to absorb cervicovaginal secretions
Step 3: remove swab and immerse tip in buffer. Break the shaft at the score even with the top of the tube
Step 4: insert the swab shaft into the hole inside the tube cap and push down tightly over the shaft, sealing the tube with a click. Ensure the shaft is inserted securely to avoid leakage. Label, and send fetal fibronectin sample to a laboratory near you
Preparation of the Patient and Environment
- Explain the procedure to the patient
- Arrange the equipment at the bedside
- Provide privacy
- Obtain laboratory request and specimen container and slides
- Position the patient comfortably
- Instruct the patient to empty bladder
Equipment
- Draw Mackintosh and sheet
- Sterile swab container or slides
- Sterile gloves or clean gloves
- Paper bag and K-basin
- Torch light or spotlight
- Sterile speculum and water soluble jelly
Procedure
- Give dorsal positions
- Wear clean gloves
- Take the vaginal discharge with sterile swab stick
- Smear it on one side of the slide and make thin film over the sides
- Dry in the slides, then wrap in paper and send to the laboratory
After Care
- Place the position comfortably
- Label and send the specimen to the laboratory
- Replace the articles after cleaning
- Wash the hands thoroughly
- Record the procedure in the nurse’s record sheet
