How to collect a Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab

How to collect a Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab

The laboratory requires high numbers of organisms to culture successfully for respiratory viruses such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Influenza A, Influenza B, or Parainfluenza.

The best time to take an NP swab is within 24-48 hours of symptom onset.
A properly executed NP swab will yield high numbers of organisms

How do I swab?

Preparation before collection：

Insert the dry swab through one nostril straight back (NOT upwards), along the floor of the nasal passage until you reach the posterior wall of the nasopharynxEncourage the resident to blow his or her nose to clear nasal passage.
If the resident is unable to perform this task wipe the nares with a cotton tip swab or tissue.
Label the vial with the resident’s name, date of birth, and time collected.
Perform hand hygiene. Put on a mask, eye protection, and gloves.

Usage and contraindications in collection

With the person’s head in a neutral position,Insert the dry swab through one nostril straight back (NOT upwards), along the floor of the nasal passage until you reach the posterior wall of the nasopharynx – generally one half the distance from the corner of the nose to the front of the ear (about 4 to 6 cm or 1.6 – 2.5 inches)；

Rotate the swab gently and leave it in place for a few seconds;
Remove the swab carefully, not to touch the side of the nostril.
Open the transport bottle and place the swab in the transport medium.
Break the cotton swab at the scratch and redo it.

What to do after collection：

Place the specimen in the large inner bag of the provided plastic biohazard bag.
Take off gloves and keep your hands hygienic; remove the mask and clean your hands.
Fill out the application form and place it in the small outer pocket of a plastic biohazard bag.
Place the entire plastic biohazard bag in a separate clean paper bag or zipper bag.
Refrigerate specimens.
Perform hand hygiene.
Used for picking up NP specimens and delivering them to the laboratory.
Do not send with a regular laboratory courier

Manufacturer：HUACHENYANG TECH