Cytological samples can be collected by imprinting, swabbing, scraping, or performing a fine-needle aspiration of the lesion.
Label the slides with name, clinic identifier, and site/source.
Place a small drop of fluid on the slide.
Using a slide spreader, touch the fluid and allow the fluid to spread.
Push the slide forward to achieve a feathery edge. Air dry. Care must be taken not to place excessive pressure on the slide, causing the cells to rupture.
Place air-dried slides in provided slide boxes, and label the outside of the box with name, clinic identifier and clinic name.