Please be advised that Pathlab phlebotomists are not able to provide instructions or facilities for the collection of rectal swabs, STI swabs or STI urine specimen, or genital swabs, effective immediately.
Accurate sample collection of these specimen types requires adherence to specific guidelines that does not form part of Pathlab phlebotomist training. To avoid the risk of patients receiving inaccurate guidance, potentially invalid test results, and our staff being put in a professionally vulnerable position, our phlebotomists cannot advise or enable rectal swabs, STI swabs or STI urine specimen, or genital swab collection. In addition, our building facilities are not designed or adequately setup to support the collection of such specimens.
Patients requiring rectal swabs, STI swabs or STI urine specimen, or genital swab collection will be referred to the requestor or healthcare professional who is appropriately trained to provide the necessary instructions, support, and facilities.
This furthermore enables our phlebotomists to focus on their core duty of blood collection, improving patient workflow and reducing wait times at collection sites.
Please note that the following MDRO screens can be conducted using a faeces sample. A collection kit can be provided to the patient to take away, collect the sample themselves, and return it.
VRE
ESBL
CPE
CRAB (note additional axilla and groin swabs are recommended)
Thank you for assisting us in continuing to provide your patients with the best possible care and diagnostic testing.