ABSTRACT
Background: The use of the most appropriate collection and transport system device is critical for preservation and isolation of clinically significant organisms. Over the past few years, several studies have evaluated the performance of traditional cotton/dacron swabs versus the nylon flocked swab.(2)(3)(4) Things are changing in microbiology labs due to the increased demands for automation. Transport device platforms must now support molecular testing, virology testing and rapid antigen testing, as well as traditional culture methods. As a result, many labs are moving to replace their traditional swabs with superior performing, multi-purpose flocked swabs.
