Conventional Pap smear collection has been taught in medical training programs and utilized for the past 50+ years. The technique includes several steps that have been eliminated by the SurePath method and are critical for collection of a satisfactory specimen that is free from significant artifacts.
1. To obtain the collection supplies needed for a conventional Pap, see the Supplies page.
2. If you prefer, we can provide you with the PapPack Pap
Smear Collection Kit, which includes all of the necessary
3. There are several different types of spatulas and brushes or brooms
used to collection conventional Pap smears. This
3. MOST IMPORTANT: The most critical aspect of the collection once the
specimen is obtained, is to make the smear and
4. Once obtained, make a smear* with the device(s) as follows:
If using both a spatula and endocervical brush, use spatual first and set aside or give to assistant (keeping cervical material on the spatula tip) and then use brush. Once you have cervical material on both devices do the following immediately:
Apply spatula to one side of the slide near the labeled end and smear towards opposite end.
Apply brush to opposite side of slide near the labeled end and roll towards the opposite end..
IMMEDIATELY SPRAY THE SLIDE WITH FIXATIVE
5. Place the slide in a carrier and place in a specimen bag along with a properly filled out requisition. Back To Top