PAP Smear, ThinPrep® Method

• Label container with patient’s first name, last name and DOB
• Indicate specimen source on requisition slip
• Include birth date, LMP, last PAP smear, exogenous hormones, drug therapy and any previous pertinent clinical information on the requisition.

• Lubricant jellies should not be used to lubricate the speculum.
• Remove excess mucus or other discharge present before taking the sample
• Remove inflammatory exudates from the cervical canal before taking the sample.
• The cervix should not be cleaned by washing with saline or it may result in a relatively acellular specimen.
• The sample should be obtained before the application of acetic acid

A gynecologic specimen is collected using a brush, broom-like device or plastic spatula as a cervical sampling system.

• Brush or broom-like device - Insert the brush into the endocervix canal until only the bottom most fibers are exposed. Slowly rotate the brush ¼ to ½ turn in one direction. Do not over rotate the brush. Then rotate the brush in the PreservCyt® solution 10 times while pushing against the wall of the ThinPrep® vial. Swirl the brush vigorously to release additional material. Discard the brush.
• Spatula device - Obtain an adequate sample from the ectocervix using a plastic spatula. Swirl the spatula vigorously in the PreservCyt® vial 10 times, discard the spatula.

• Unlabeled or Mislabeled collection vial
• Collection vial not labeled
• Sample leaking