Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Nasopharyngeal

Container/Tube:  3 ml saline

Collection Instructions:

1. Tilt patient's head back 70 degrees.

2. Insert swab through the nares parallel to the palate (not upwards) until resistance is encounterd or the distance is equivalent to that from the ear to the nostril of the patient indicating contact with the nasopharynx.

3. Gently, rub and roll the swab. Leave the swab in place for several seconds to absorb secretions before removing.

4. Place NP swab immediately into a sterile vial containing 3 ml saline.  Break the shaft at the notch.

5. Label with patient's name, second unique identifier (e.g. medical record number or date of birth), date and time of collection.

6. Specimen source is required.

7. Bag specimen in individual biohazard bag.