Specimen Requirements

Specimen source is required.

Topical ointments or drugs in or on site to be cultured must be avoided.

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

Specimen Type: External ear

Container/Tube: Aerobic culture swab

Specimen Volume: Swab

Collection Instructions:

1. Collected by physician from affected area.

2. Cleanse external ear with mild antiseptic.
3. Use swab to collect any drainage present.
4. Return swab to sterile culture transport tube.

5. Label swab with patient’s name (first and last), medical record number or date of birth, specimen source, and date and time of collection.

Specimen Type: Internal ear

Container/Tube: Aerobic culture swab or sterile container

Specimen Volume: Swab of ear or 0.5 mL of ear drainage

Collection Instructions:

1. Collected by physician from affected area.

2. Cleanse external ear with mild antiseptic.

3. Insert sterile funnel and swab or aspirate specimen from eardrum or beyond.

4. If eardrum is not perforated, specimen should be collected by a physician trained in this procedure.

5. Label swab with patient’s name (first and last), medical record number or date of birth, specimen source, and date and time of collection.