Additional Specimen Collection Information

Transfer recovered organism to a clean, dry container and if transport to laboratory is delayed, add 10% formalin to the container to preserve the organism. 

Place skin scrapings in a dry container or place between two glass slides (rubber band or tape slides together)

Scabies Skin Scraping Collection as follows:

1. Place a drop of mineral oil on a sterile scalpel blade.
2. Allow some of the oil to flow onto the papule.  Scrape vigorously six or seven time to remove the top of the papule. (Tiny flecks of blood should be seen in the oil.)
3. Transfer the oil and scrapings onto a glass slide (an applicator stick can be used).
4. Place a coverslip or another glass slide over the scrapings/oil.
5. Rubber band or tape the 2 slides together.
6. Label the slide with appropriate patient identification.
7. Transport to the laboratory immediately.