1. Place the patient in either a lateral recumbent or dorsal lithotomy position.
2. Insert a tap water moistened Dacron swab 5-6 cm into the anal canal, past the anal verge, into the rectal vault.
3. Apply firm lateral pressure to the swab while it is rotated and slowly withdrawn from the anal canal.
NOTE: Ensure adequate sampling of the transition zone between the anal and rectal mucosa.
4. Place the swab in a PreservCyt vial. Vigorously rinse the swab as quickly as possible in the PreservCyt solution by rotating the device in the solution 10 x while pushing against the vial wall. Swirl vigorously to further release the material. Dispose of the swab.
5. Tighten the cap beyond the torque lines on the vial.
Avoid the use of lubricant or talcum.
Do not use beyond the expiry date on the vial.
Indicate on the Cytology form/ requisition the specimen site/body site