Where do you put a tick after removal? - briefly
Place the tick in a sealed container—such as a zip‑lock bag, vial, or tube with alcohol—so it can be stored for identification or testing. If testing is not required, dispose of it in a sealed bag and discard it in the trash.
Where do you put a tick after removal? - in detail
After extracting a tick from a host, place the specimen in a secure, leak‑proof container. Use a small, sterile vials or a zip‑lock bag that can be sealed tightly. Label the package with the date of removal, the location on the body where the tick was found, and any relevant patient information (e.g., age, travel history). If the tick is needed for laboratory analysis, include a separate sheet with the species identification (if known) and the reason for testing.
For short‑term storage before analysis, keep the sealed container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. If the tick must be preserved for an extended period, refrigerate at 4 °C; do not freeze unless the laboratory protocol specifically requires it, as freezing can damage the specimen.
When the sample is ready for submission, place the sealed container inside a secondary protective envelope or a rigid box to prevent puncture during transport. Ensure the outer packaging complies with local regulations for biological specimens and includes a biohazard label if required.
Key steps
- Transfer tick to a sterile, sealable container (vial or zip‑lock bag).
- Seal tightly; verify no leaks.
- Attach a label with date, collection site, and patient details.
- Store at room temperature or refrigerated (4 °C) until delivery.
- Pack the sealed container in a secondary, puncture‑resistant package.
- Apply appropriate biohazard markings and transport according to lab instructions.
Following this protocol guarantees safe handling, preserves the tick for accurate testing, and meets regulatory requirements for biological material transport.