Specimen Type/Requirements

Collection Instructions:
1. Gather prefilled CytoLyt collection vial(s) call 701-280-4877 to order more), specimen labels and labeled requisition.
2. After taking any portion of the specimen being sent for cultures or other testing, put the remaining specimen for cytology into prefilled CytoLyt collection vial. If specimen is too large to fit in one CytoLyt collection vial, use additional vials.

• Use a new container for a new site/location

3. If CytoLyt not available, place specimen into a 120 mL specimen cup and add 50% ethanol in a 1:1 ratio. Do NOT use formalin or 95% ethanol.
4. Label a specimen container in the presence of the patient at the time of collection. The container label must have the following information:

• Two unique patient identifiers (acceptable identifiers include patient’s name, medical record number, date of birth)
• Specimen source and method of collection
• Collection date and time

5. If making slides:

• Each slide must be labeled with 2 patient identifiers using a xylene and alcohol resistent slide marker.
• Slides should be immediately fixed in 95 % alcohol