UCMC Collection Instructions

The Pap Test is not a diagnostic test; it is a screening
test
utilized to identify the presence of pre-malignant, malignant,
and/or various infectious agents. The Pap test may be
completed using either the ThinPrep system or by conventional
means.

Liquid-Based ThinPrep Pap Test: Using provided
spatula/endocervical brush collect specimen and aggressively
rinse
in the PreservCyt vial. After specimen is rinsed/collected,
tightly
cap the vial and place along with completed requisition in a
sealable biohazard bag. One vial per patient – vial must
be
labeled with patient’s name and medical record number and
sample site. Specify on requisition if HPV Reflexive or HPV
DNA
test is desired. Deliver specimen and requisition directly to
Anatomic Pathology receiving* (CCD 2-470;
tube station #212 or
#230).

*After hours and weekend specimens should be delivered/tubed
to the Laboratory Service Center (Mitchell TW-005,
tube
station #201).

Conventional Pap Smear Test: Using
provided
spatula/endocervical brush collection the specimen and gently
make
a thin smear on a microscope glass slideImmediately fix
the smear to the slide by using a cytology spray fixative.
Post fixation, place slide in a cardboard slide holder and
place in side a biohazard bag. One slide per patient –
slide
must be labeled with patient’s name and sample site.
Deliver
specimen and requisition directly to Anatomic Pathology
receiving*
(CCD 2-470; tube station #212 or
#230).

*After hours and weekend specimens should be delivered/tubed
to the Laboratory Service Center (Mitchell TW-005,
tube
station #201).