4.4.2.10 Vaginal Swabs

If vaginal penetration is reported or suspected, examine the vaginal area for injury.

Document injuries on the ‘Genital Map’ found in the history form, prior to inserting the speculum.

The use of a minimal amount of water-soluble, non-spermicidal lubricant (water or saline) during the vaginal and/or rectal exam is acceptable and promotes patient comfort.

Insert the speculum, and inspect for injury or foreign bodies. Document any injury within the vaginal canal.

Colposcopy documentation should be done prior to obtaining any swabs.

Remove any foreign bodies, and let them air-dry before placing them in the envelope marked ‘Miscellaneous’.

Clearly document, on the ‘Miscellaneous’ envelope from where the evidence was obtained.

Obtain swabs of the vaginal area with the cotton-tipped swabs provided in the envelope marked ‘Vaginal Swabs’.

Indicate on the ‘Vaginal Swab’ envelope whether the swabs were collected from the outer labial folds or from within the orifice. If both areas were swabbed, package the swabs in separate envelopes, and clearly note the envelope from where the evidence was collected.

Do one swab at a time. Use the entire surface of each cotton-tipped swab to maximize the amount of sample collected. If particulate matter/fibers are on the swab, do not remove them.

Mark the first swab obtained with a black marker on the distal wooden portion of the swab stick.

Place the four swabs in a stable stand, and let them air-dry. Once dried, place all four swabs back into the pre-labeled ‘Vaginal Swabs’ envelope.