NB: Please do not use the "Aptima" Collection system as the transport media used inhibits testing by other methods. Always use the ProbeTEC Pink or Blue Swabs or a Yellow Topped Urine container as detailed below.

ENDOCERVICAL SWAB (PINK SWAB):
• To collect an Endocervical Swab use the Pink BD ProbeTec ET Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (CT/GC) Amplified DNA Assay Endocervical Specimen collection and Dry Transport Kit.
• Remove excess mucus from the cervical os with the large-tipped Cleaning Swab provided in the Cleaning-Collection and Transport System and discard.
• Insert the Collection Swab into the cervical canal and rotate for 15 to 30 seconds.
• Withdraw the swab carefully.  Avoid contact with the vaginal mucosa.
• Immediately place the Collection Swab into the transport tube.  Make sure the cap is tightly secured to the tube.

MALE URETHRAL SWAB (BLUE SWAB):
• To collect a Male Urethral Swab use the blue BD ProbeTec ET Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (CT/GC) Amplified DNA Assay Male Urethral Specimen collection and Dry Transport Kit.
• Insert the Mini-Tip Collection swab 2 to 4 cm into the urethra and rotate for  3 to 5 seconds.
• Withdraw the swab and place the collection swab into the transport tube.  Make sure the cap is tightly secured to the tube.

SWAB STORAGE AND TRANSPORT:
The collection swabs should be stored and transported to the laboratory at temperature of 2 to 27ºC (either refrigerator or room temperature) within 4-6 days of collection.

URINE (YELLOW TOP URINE CONTAINER):
• To collect a urine specimen use a normal yellow topped urine collection container.
• The patient should not have urinated for at least 1 hour prior to specimen collection.
• The patient should collect the first 15 to 20 mL of voided urine using the first part of the urine stream and not midstream.
• The urine should be stored and transported to the laboratory at 2 to 8ºC (refrigerator temperature) within 4-6 days of collection.

The current PCR test allows both Chlamydia and Gonococcus to be tested simultaneously. INTERPRETATION: The overall sensitivity compared to culture is 92% and the specificity is 95%, ie, sensitivities of 95% for cervical and urethral swabs and male urine and 83% for female urine specimens