Test Name: Urethral or Urethral Meatus Swabs 
Alternate Test Names  
PLS Test Code UROG  Laboratory Microbiology 
Specimen Urethral Swab  Analysis Performed On  
Container ENT/urethral swab- wire swab in transport medium  Container colour Orange 
Multiple specimens  
Required Volume Adult (mL)   Req Vol Paediatric (mL)  
Reference Ranges  
Turnaround Time Routine   Turnaround Time Urgent  
Turnaround Other Microscopy < 8 hours Culture < 3 days 
Days test is performed Daily  Transport 4 degrees C (On Ice) 
Special Requirements The work-up performed is dependent on the clinical notes provided. Viral and chlamydia PCR kits are available. 
Patient Preparation The patient should avoid urinating prior to this collection to avoid loss of discharge. 
Collection Instructions Collection by appointment only. A male staff member must be attendance. Material from a site about 2 cm inside the urethra (by swab) or expressed pus is required With the patient standing, request that the patient milks the terminal end of the urethra for urethral discharge. The expressed discharge is collected onto a fine wire swab and placed into transport medium. If exudate is unavailable, insert the fine wire swab about 2 cm into the urethra, gently rotate the swab and remove it. Use the fine swab in the chlamydia PCR kit to collect a specimen for Chlamydia/Gonorrhoeae PCR. If request is for viral or chlamydia investigations use the appropriate swab type If discharge is minimal, swabs should be moistened with sterile saline to ensure adequate collection. 
Clinical Information  
Sent to Reference Laboratory No 
Ref Laboratory Name  
Estimated Patient Fee N/A 
Last Updated 25-Aug-2006 (Version: 1.00)