The rollout of swabs and tubes will happen simultaneously but is scheduled in phases, aligning with the broader pathology services transformation programme. Specific go-live dates will be communicated to each site in advance. Phased rollout is expected to begin in November, starting with primary care, followed by the Trusts.

This rollout is happening around the world and the closest to your locations would be South West London Pathology (SWLP), which completed the Σ-TRANSWAB MRSA change earlier this year and is now changing to the Wound Swabs (Σ-TRANSWAB®). Some GPs in Southwark and Lambeth – as well as secondary care colleagues at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust - have already been using the type of boric acid urine tubes we will be introducing for some time.

Liquid swabs allow for automated processing, reducing manual handling, increasing testing speed and improving accuracy in microbiology diagnostics.

The current TRANSWAB® is a gel and the newer Σ-TRANSWAB® is a liquid swab, so contains no agar. The other main difference for MRSA testing is the current triple MRSA process will move to a 3 in 1 sample process.

A phased approach will be taken to ensure a smooth transition. We are working with Trust procurement teams to ensure robust arrangements are in place throughout.

Yes, gel swabs and old urine bottles will still be processed for a limited time post-rollout to support the transition period.

Yes – see above.

The main difference is that the current triple MRSA process will move to a 3 in 1 sample process, which is quicker and more precise. It works by a) swabbing the groin and swishing in the liquid, before swab is discarded; b) swabbing armpit and same as (a); c) nasal swab, put in vial, snap off non-swab end and screw on vial cap, leaving just one swab and sample within. This aligns with industry best practice and it is a process being adopted globally.

Yes, the nasal swab must be collected last to prevent cross-contamination. The order of groin and armpit swabs can be flexible.

Use a sharps bin or other designated biohazard disposal.

There may be a risk of spillage, as this is a liquid rather than a gel. However, there are no hazardous materials present in the swab. If there is a spill, we would suggest you use a new swab and vial to ensure the correct results. Further handling information will be available during training.

If the liquid is spilled, the test cannot be conducted, as the liquid medium is essential for processing the sample.

There are no new risks, other than if the red swabs used for the MRSA testing are left in the Σ-TRANSWAB® Liquid when sent to the labs – this would render the test as void. Only the white (nasal) swab should be left in the tube.

The same precautions for the gel and Σ-TRANSWAB® Liquid swabs should be taken (i.e. wear gloves and dispose of the waste safely).

Training sessions will be planned weeks ahead of each site's rollout. Training will cover correct collection procedures for the new swabs and best practices for handling liquid swabs. Training videos are already available (see top of this page), and plans are in place to facilitate face-to-face training. The supplier will train Practice Development Nurse Team (PDNs), who will then cascade knowledge to nursing staff across Trust sites and in the community.

Training will be delivered through a combination of on-site sessions, webinars and recorded instructional materials to ensure accessibility across all sites.

Yes, each Trust will work with the supplier to tailor training approaches based on site needs, workforce size and logistical constraints.