Wounds and Abscesses
- Aspirated pus is always better than swab.
- As surface wounds are often colonized by environmental bacteria, it is important to irrigate with sterile saline and the swab from deeper sites of active infection.
- If slough +, it has to be removed, before taking sample.
- 2 swabs may be sent (for Gram stain and culture). In burn wounds
- clean and debride prior to collection
- 3 to 4 mm punch biopsy specimen is optimum (Culture of surface swabs are misleading and often grows colonizers) Tissue biopsy or aspirated specimen is ideal in burns, wounds, decubitus lesions, gangrenous lesions, varicose ulcers, etc.
Disclaimer: This guide is an educational reference for healthcare professionals. It does not replace clinical judgement — always follow your hospital's protocols and current guidelines.