5 Types of Forensic Sample Collection Tools

When it comes to sample collection there are two very different types. 

One is swabbing for blood or bodily fluids, the other is collecting trace evidence. 

It is important to note that while collecting fluid almost always involves using a swab on a visible portion piece of evidence, collecting trace evidence isn’t always that straight forward. Collecting trace evidence may involve sterilized tweezers and dry transport systems.

Forensic swabs collect DNA from skin cells, gunshot or explosion residue, blood and bodily fluids.

DNA Controlled Swabs for Forensics

When choosing the right kind of swab, it is strongly suggested to choose DNA-Controlled Swabs.

These are swabs that are most specifically labeled DNA-Free or DNA-controlled to indicate that it is free of human DNA contamination. 

1. Flocked Swabs

Among forensic sampling collection tools, the flocked swab has proved to be popular because of its its unique micro structure. 

This micro structure makes it a better alternative to the standard cotton swab by virtue of its structure that can collect, retain and elute specimen. This makes it perfect for PCR, molecular assays, DNA testing and direct antigen testing.

2. Cotton Swabs

Cotton swabs are versatile tools in sample collection. Depending on your use, individually wrapped cotton swabs or swabs that come with dry transport tubes are best. 

If you have an ample sample material than cotton can save your forensic team money. Whereas flocked swabs are extremely useful when you need superior collecting abilities, cotton swabs excel when you are dealing with a large sample.

3. Foam Swabs

Foam swabs, especially those with an oversized tip, maximize specimen collection and preservation. Foam swabs can be used to collection saliva, blood, or other physiological fluids. Because of the larger surface area of the swab head, you will be able to collect larger quantities of your sample. 

Foam swabs when used on patients reduce discomfort caused by cotton and other fibers. Foam swab samples can also be transferred to FTA cards.

4. Cuticle Sticks

Cuticle sticks collect trace evidence such as skin cells found in fingernail scrapings. The double-beveled edges of some orange sticks make sampling collection easy and minimize discomfort. Cuticle sticks used for forensics must be DNA-free and come individually wrapped to ensure an accurate sample can be taken.

5. Cap-Shure®

Puritan Medical Products created the cap-shure cap to minimize cross contamination during transport. Microbiology labs and genetic testing facilities have benefited from cap-shure technology since 2014. Because the cap-shure is a method of transporting materials, the technology is found paired with Puritan’s flocked or cotton swabs with wood or plastic polystrene handles.