Appendix 6

Obtaining patient DNA sample through saliva collection

In adherence with the MA SANE “do no harm” philosophy, the DNA Saliva Collection Kit can be used to replace MSAECK Step 4 — Known Blood Sample if a patient declines a blood draw, or if the patient’s blood has already been drawn before the SANE arrives. DNA Saliva Collection Kits are available for Adult and Adolescent SANE use at all SANE designated sites.

Important consideration

If an oral assault occurred within 24 hours, the DNA Saliva Collection Kit may be used, but should be used only after collection of MSAECK Step 6 – Oral Swabs and Smears. After Oral Swabs and Smears are collected, ask the patient to rinse their mouth and/or brush their teeth before using the DNA Saliva Kit.

DNA saliva collection kit Instructions (contained in kit envelope)

• Read entire instruction sheet prior to saliva collection.
• Do not use the kit if the kit envelope integrity seal is broken.
• To avoid contamination, it is critical not to touch the Pink Saliva Collection Paper or to allow the paper to come in contact with other evidence during the drying and packaging stage.
  1. Step 1: Change or put on new “powder-free” gloves.
  2. Step 2: Remove all components from the kit envelope.
  3. Step 3: Fill out all the information requested on the front of the DNA saliva collection card.
  4. Step 4: Remove the foam tipped swab from the sterile package being careful not to touch the foam tip.
  5. Step 5: Place the swab in the patient’s mouth. Gently and thoroughly swab between the gum line and the cheek, both left and right side, and then under the patient’s tongue allowing the foam tip to absorb as much saliva as possible.
  6. Step 6: Remove the applicator from the patient’s mouth. Carefully lift the paper cover on the Pink saliva collection card. Press the flat circular applicator head within the circle. Without removing the applicator from the card, roll the handle of the applicator approximately 180 degrees to the left and hold it in place for a few seconds. Continue pressing until the circle is saturated with saliva and the pink area within the circle area turns white, and then discard the applicator.
  7. Step 7: Allow saliva on the card to air dryfor approximately 30 minute. After 30 minutes, return the collection card to the zip-lock bag provided, seal the bag, and then return the zip-lock bag to the kit envelope. NOTE: Do not remove the desiccant packet from the zip-lock bag.
  8. Step 8: Do not moisten the kit envelope flap with saliva or water. Affix the evidence seal where indicate on the envelope. Initial and date the seal where indicated.
  9. Step 9: Place the sealed envelope in the MSAECK with the other evidence collection envelopes.
  10. Step 10: Note on “MSAECK Step 4: Known Blood Sample” envelope the reason that the blood sample was not collected and note that the DNA saliva collection kit was used instead.