Pathlab update: HPV dry tube collection swab technique reminders

The transition from buffer-containing HPV swab tubes to dry tubes has been well received. To support continued best practice, please take note of the following important points about breaking the swab into the tube.

Always break the swab at the pink break line marked on the swab shaft. Do not cut the swab above this point. Cutting creates two risks: the swab can become lodged in the tube lid and drop inside the instrument, rendering it unsuitable for analysis; and scissors can introduce DNA contamination to the patient's specimen.

When breaking the swab, take care to keep the swab tip straight. A bent tip risks being accidentally pulled out of the tube by the instrument pipette during sampling, which will also make the swab unsuitable for analysis and may cause instrument contamination. Photographs illustrating correct technique are included on the Pathlab website. Thank you for supporting optimal swab collection and the best possible HPV results for patients.