Today is our topic of discussion is Vaginal Swab.
Vaginal Swab
VAGINAL SWAB/SMEAR
Vaginal specimen (swab) collected for cervical cytology to detect the abnormities (Table 23.1).
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 of 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.
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.
Read more: