Microbiology Specimen Collection and Transfer

Wounds and Abscesses

Not yet clinically reviewed

This protocol was migrated from the earlier Pharmapedia and Ward Guide apps for educational use. Follow your hospital's own policies and consult seniors when in doubt.

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.