Testing Laboratory
APS | Mt WellingtonDepartment
Cytology
Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)
Gynae Cyto
Test Code (Numeric Code)
9604
Laboratory Handling
Transport
Community referrers: Transport to APS via regular Awanui collection as soon as practicable. Hospital referrers: Samples are sent to LabPLUS and referred to APS for testing.
Test Adds Requirement
The HPV test can be performed on the ThinPrep sample. Cytology will still be utilised, but as a reflex test for HPV positive patients or co-test in symptomatic patients. Co-tests are processed as per the clinical guidelines - ensure a valid clinical reason is clearly indicated on the request form.
Sample Stability
4-37 degrees Celsius, must test within 3 weeks.
Synonyms
Cervical Cytology
Cervical Smear
Gynaecological Cytology
Liquid based Cytology
Pap Smear
Smear Test
ThinPrep
HPV Primary Screening
Turnaround Time
3 days
HPV only: 100% within 3 working days. Cytology and HPV: 90% within 7 working days and 100% within 15 working days.
Specimen Type
- Cervical Smear
Specimen Requirements
Tube/Container Type:
Preferred
- Thin Prep
Minimum Sample Volume (ml)
17
Paediatric Specimen Requirements
Tube/Container Type:
Preferred
- Thin Prep
Pre-testing Requirements
Speculum examination with cells removed using the cytobrush or cervibroom.
• Take the sample from the transformation zone of the cervix, vagina or vault using the most clinically appropriate device, then vigorously rinse the device in the PreservCyt
solution vial by swirling ten times or pushing up against the vial wall. Discard the device.
• Secure the vial to ensure no leakage – re-cap and tighten until the lines on the cap and the vial meet or slightly overlap.
Additional Specimen Information
ThinPrep Container:
Specimen containers should be labelled prior to collection and, if possible, in front of the patient. Specimen labels must have a MINIMUM of two patient identifiers:
• Patient Family Name & First Name
• Patient NHI number and / or DOB and
• ‘Date’ and ‘Time’ of sample collection
Request Form:
A completed laboratory request form must accompany the sample to the laboratory. A form with insufficient information will delay processing.
Key Information for Cervical Screening requests:
• Requestor Name and HPI CPN (must be an accredited cervical sampletaker)
• Facility and HPI Facility No.
• Sample type and test requested
• Patient eligibility for publicly funded health services
• Patient history and clinical details – as per NCSP Clinical Practice Guidelines
Note:
• For HPV screen-takers, ensure the name and HPI CPN of the responsible clinician who is to receive the results, is on the laboratory form.
• For eOrder and PMS computer forms, check the printout to ensure all patient and requestor details, test and clinical information are clearly indicated.
• Co-tests are processed as per the clinical guidelines - ensure a valid clinical reason is clearly indicated on the request form
Last updated: 07/05/2026