The sample should be taken from the skin behind the Uvula between/on the tonsils - especially in areas of exudate or inflammation.

• Seat the client and tilt their head back
• Ask them to relax and say ‘Ahh’
• Use an appropriate light source to view the back of the mouth
• Remove swab from sterile packaging
• Hold the tongue down (front 1/3 only) with a tongue depressor - to expose the throat
• Roll the swab gently over the areas
• Be careful not to contaminate the sample by touching the teeth, cheeks, gums or tongue
• Place the swab into the solution to prepare for testing
• Dispose of clinical waste appropriately.