Recommendations for the execution of some tests

Combined Test:

To be performed between the 11th and the 13th week of pregnancy. The test measures nuchal translucency using ultrasound, i.e. the accumulation of fluid present in the retronuchal region of the foetus. This is combined with a blood test that is sent to the laboratory for free BetaHCG and PAPP-A dosing.

Pharyngeal swab:

The patient should be fasting, should not take antibiotics for at least 5 days and, preferably, must not have performed oral hygiene operations.

Auricular swab:

Do not take antibiotics for at least 5 days also do not use intra-auricular drops at least from the evening before.

Eye swab:

Do not take antibiotics for at least 5 days and do not use any kind of drops or eye wash before the test. Avoid using cleansers to wash your face.

Nasal swab:

Do not take antibiotics for at least 5 days and do not inhale sprays and drops of any kind before the test. Do not use cleansers to wash your face.

Nasal cytology:

The patient must not have inhaled cortisone drugs and/or decongestants at least since the evening before.

Urethral swab:

Do not take antibiotics for at least 5 days and abstain from sexual relations for the 24 hours preceding the test. The urine needs to be held in for at least 4 hours before the test.

Perianal swab:

Do not take antibiotics for at least 5 days and do not wash the perianal area after the night before.

Vaginal swab:

The patient must not be under pharmacology treatment (even locally), they must abstain from sexual relations at least 24 hours prior to the test and they should not be having their menstrual period. Avoid vaginal rinsing 24 hours before the test.

Cervical smear (pap-test):

The sample must be taken at least 2 days after the last sexual relationship; in the previous 5 days diaphragms, ovules, pessaries or vaginal creams must not have been used, nor should intra-vaginal rinsing have taken place. In women of childbearing age the sample must be taken at least 5 days after the end of their menstrual cycle and at least 5 days before the probable start day.

Endometrial cytology:

It is advisable to take the sample from the 11th to the 15th day after the start of menstruation.

Prostate massage for microbiological investigations

(Various): the patient has to have a full bladder; the massage lasts for 5 minutes on average.

Tine Test:

The patient has to go back to the analysis laboratory to assess the reaction 72 hours after the intra-dermal puncture.  During this period the patient must avoid washing with soap or applying creams or ointments in the region around the puncture.