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College of Engineering Unit: 
Biological and Ecological Engineering
Project Team Member(s): 
Anna Brousseau, Bailey Dixon, Kristina Claras and Chase Pettibone
Physical Location at Expo: 
Community Plaza
Project ID: 
BIOE.08
Project Description: 

Cervical cancer has tormented millions of women across the world for decades. However, the primary screening technique for cervical cancer is through an invasive and uncomfortable procedure known as a Pap smear. Currently, the only alternative screening method for a Pap smear is an HPV test, yet these tests only suggest if an individual is at a higher risk for cervical cancer. Introducing The Nightingale, the world’s first at-home, self-administered cervical cancer test which is able to collect cervical cells and be mailed into a central lab from anywhere in the continental United States. The primary purpose of The Nightingale is to provide the patient with a convenient, accessible, and comfortable way to screen for cervical cancer. The Nightingale includes three primary components: the brush, applicator, and the collection vial. The brush of The Nightingale is made up of an ergonomically shaped handle, extended shaft, and nylon bristle tip. Next, the applicator is designed similarly to a tampon with a slightly curved tip for ease of insertion and small opening for the brush to travel through during use. Finally, the collection vial will have a volume of 20 mL and contain 17 mL of BioComma Cervical Cell Preservation solution. The Nightingale can be purchased and taken home to be administered by the patient. To administer the device, the patient simply inserts the applicator into the vagina, presses the brush further until it reaches the cervix, and swirls the brush both five times clockwise and counterclockwise. Finally, the device is to be removed from the vagina and the brush is to be broken off and placed in the collection vial to be mailed off. The result is a safe, effective, and convenient product to utilize and test for cervical cancer which meets the users needs and provides the public health sector with a vital tool to end cervical cancer. 

Opportunities: 
This team is open to networking