Typically, a sterile swab has a collection material at the end of a rod or bar, which can be a natural material or a synthetic material (e.g., polyester). To use the swab, typically the user holds the rod and brushes the collection material onto the surface to collect the sample. There are several types of swabs available, as no one type is suitable for all situations. Swabs are sterile to maintain the integrity of the sample and often have sterile containers or bags that can be resealed to maintain integrity during handling and transport to the laboratory. Many different people use sterile swabs, including medical personnel, food manufacturers, and crime scene investigators.
Sterile swab tips may vary in material, size and shape, such as round or pointed tips. Swabs may be made of cotton fiber, polyester, or calcium alginate. Some companies produce different styles of swab tips, including flocking techniques that use blown fibers and electrostatic environments. Typically, manufacturers wrap the fibers around the tip of the stem. Wood, plastic or metal are the standard materials used for the stem.
Some users who require aseptic collection products collect samples from living organisms, such as humans, animals and even plants. Other users collect samples from inert surfaces, including crime scenes, furniture such as food processing tables and other areas. Many times, the type of sample needed determines the type of sterile swab the user chooses.
Sterile swab manufacturers offer dry swabs and wet swabs. Typically, they package sterile swabs in sterile packaging, such as paper, plastic, or plastic-coated paper sleeves. Many manufacturers offer gamma-irradiated and sealed packages to protect the integrity of the swab. Some swabs can be used in test tubes and may contain liquids such as sterile water, sterile saline solution, or sodium chloride. Users should check with the laboratory that will be handling the sample to find out which type of swab or solution to use.
For many applications, maintaining the integrity of the sample is as important as using a sterile swab. Many companies have developed vials for this purpose. As with selecting the correct swab, the user should select the appropriate specimen container. One example that requires special consideration is the collection of blood-borne pathogens. To protect the person handling the sample, some vials have breathable filters that allow the sample to air dry without releasing contaminants into the air.
Collecting pure samples starts with sterile equipment, including swabs. Many sites use sterile swabs to monitor the environment or work area, to control infections and their spread, and to monitor hygiene management programs. Some examples of these operations include hospitals and healthcare facilities, food and drug processing facilities, and animal care facilities such as veterinary clinics and zoos.
