Oral fluid, also known as saliva, is collected using a specialized device placed in the mouth. This device contains an absorbent pad that soaks up the saliva.
Oral Fluid Collection Process
Here's a breakdown of the typical process:
- Device Placement: A collection device with an absorbent pad is placed inside the participant's mouth.
- Saliva Absorption: The absorbent pad soaks up the oral fluid.
- Visual Indicator: Some devices, like the Oral-Eze™ Oral Fluid Collection System, have a colored indicator that shows when enough oral fluid has been collected on the pad. This helps ensure an adequate sample is obtained.
- Pad Transfer: Once sufficient fluid is collected, the pad is removed from the mouth and placed into a buffer solution.
- Laboratory Analysis: The buffer containing the pad with the oral fluid is then sent to a laboratory for testing and analysis.
Key Components of the Collection Process
- Absorbent Pad: The central element for collecting the oral fluid.
- Collection Device: Holds the absorbent pad and facilitates easy placement in the mouth.
- Buffer Solution: Preserves the sample and prepares it for analysis.
- Visual Indicator (Optional): Some devices provide a visual cue that the sample is sufficient.
Example Device
The Oral-Eze™ Oral Fluid Collection System exemplifies this method, using a color indicator for adequate sample collection.
