Nail Collection Instructions for Onychodystrophy Testing
NAIL SPECIMEN PREPARATION
01
Complete requisition form. Make copies (both sides) of patient license & insurance card.
02
Print out patient label or fill out patient label provided in kit. Be sure to note specimen site correctly for left versus right side.
03
Wash hands. Wipe nail collection site with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Local anesthesia optional.
PATIENT LABELS
OFFICE PREPARATION
Provider office supplies the nail clippers, curette, 70% isopropyl alcohol, & local anesthesia if neede
Tips for a successful collection
Only use alcohol for cleaning the specimen site.
Use clean clipping tools for collection. Rinse with saline if needed.
Discard the initial distal nail clippings from step 1 of the collection process.
Do not place the patient in betadine whirlpool.
Do not use nail or skin softener.
Do not submit specimen in formalin.
Do not collect a specimen if the patient is undergoing antifungal treatment. (Wait 7 days after topical treatment before collecting. Wait 60 days after systemic treatment before collecting.)
NAIL COLLECTION
Step 2: Secure specimen from the most proximal area of nail and hyponychium. Place specimen into small bag.
Step 3: To maximize yield, use curette to collect additional subungal debris. Place specimen into same bag. Apply patient label to bag.
IMPORTANT
3mm = minimum specimen size of nail and subungal debris for a single test only (PCR or histopathology)
6mm or more = required specimen size to perform more than one test (PCR + PAS/GMS/FM)
Step 1: Wipe site with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Cut, remove, and discard distal nail clippings.
For second site collection: Repeat steps 1 through 3
SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS
01
Place small specimen bags inside biohazard bag & seal bag.
02
Place requisition form & patient forms in pocket on outside of biohazard bag.
03
Place biohazard bag inside pre-paid return mailer & seal.
04
Schedule pick up from shipping provider or drop off at a local dropbox. Ship same day for faster results.