Trichomonas vaginalis - Microscopy

Vagina

Urethra (Special request only)

• The nurse or physician will take a swab of the vaginal area.
• The swab is then quickly transferred to the transport media.
• The specimen is then labeled appropriately and then sent to the laboratory.
• Trichomonas organisms are extremely labile, therefore prompt transportation to the laboratory is recommended.

Daily

Swabs greater than optimal transport time will be processed with a disclaimer comment of specimen integrity.

• Specimen should be transported ASAP to the laboratory after collection. optimal transport is 24 hours. 
• Specimen should be stored at room temperature after receipt in the laboratory (in Microbiology rack).
• Do Not refrigerate specimen.