Blood collection information
Click here to download or view the recommended Order of draw for blood collection.
Blood cultures
How to store specimens
If a sample is not dispatched to the laboratory on the day of collection, please store as follows:
Store these specimens in the fridge
- All urines for microbiology and cytology
- Faeces specimens for microbiology
- Viral swabs
- Sputum for microbiology and cytology
Store these specimens at room temperature
- Bacterial amies swabs
- Aspirates
- Chlamydia swabs
- Chlamydia urines
Blood specimens
Blood specimens should not be stored overnight.
Mycology Collection Guidelines
To support accurate testing and ensure an efficient experience for your patients, please note the following guidelines:
Bookings
- Bookings are preferred so we can ensure experienced staff are available.
- Patients can book online via the Awanui Labs website or through our call centre.
Pre-Collection Requirements
- No antifungal creams or ointments for 72 hours prior to collection.
- No oral antifungal medications for 6 weeks prior to collection.
- Please ensure nail polish is removed prior to nail clipping collections.
Collection Limitations
- Groin or genital scrapings cannot be performed at Awanui collection centres.
- Please perform these at the time of consultation, otherwise patients will be referred to the referrer.
Oncology ancillary tests and biomarkers
Sample labelling criteria
Samples will be discarded if they do not meet our labelling criteria. A minimum of two points of identification (e.g. full name and NHI or DOB) are required on all specimens and forms to meet regulatory requirements.
Swab guides
For more information on swab collection please see our guides below:
Test guide
We have created a new, searchable guide to laboratory tests in the Otago/Southland region. Click the here to access this test guide.