Respiratory Virus PCR

Test Name	Respiratory Virus PCR
Alternate Name(s)	Influenza A, Influenza B, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), COVID19, MPV (Metapneumo Virus), Adenovirus, Rhino/Entero virus, Parainfluenza 1 and Parainfluenza 3
Laboratory Module	Microbiology
Ordering Mnemonic	RESP PCR
Specimen Type	Nasopharyngeal Swab
Collection Container	Universal Transport media
Container Information	UTM
Collection Information	Collection information Perform hand hygiene. Don appropriate PPE. Position patient with bed raised to 45 degrees (or in a comfortable position). Incline patient’s head as shown. Gently insert NP swab into one nostril to previously determined mark (see TIP). Press the swab tip on the mucosal surface of the mid-inferior turbinate. Rub the swab back and forth about 5 times. Leave swab in place for a few seconds to absorb material. Withdraw swab and insert into transport medium. Break/cut swab shaft at score line and cap vial tightly. TIP: Estimate the distance the swab needs to be inserted into the nose by ensuring the distance from the tip of the nose to the tip of the earlobe. The swab needs to be inserted approximately HALF of that distance.
Test Schedule	Daily
Routine Turnaround Time	24 hours
Critical Values	Positive result information made available to healthcare provider.
Lab Process Notes
Storage and Transport	Specimen should be transported to the laboratory ASAP in biohazard bag after collection. Specimen should be stored at 2-8°C temperature after receipt in the laboratory.
Test Referred To	Onsite, BGH Laboratory.

STAFF LAB TESTING INFO