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Test Code LAB229 Nasal Culture

Important Note

Nasal cultures do not predict the etiologic agent of sinus, middle ear, or lower respiratory tract infection and should not be submitted in lieu of specimens from those sites.

If the specimen collected is to detect MRSA colonization, a full nasal culture should not be ordered. Please order the Nasal Staph Aureus PCR test.

 

Performing Lab

Arnot Ogden Medical Center

Ordering Recommendations

Detection and identification of bacterial agents of the nasal cavity.

Collect

E swab or Culturette Swab

Stability (from collection to initiation)

MUST be received in the laboratory within 48 hours of collection.

Storage/Transport Temperature

Room Temperature

Methodology

Conventional Culture

Start Date

9/13/2017

Last Review Date

6/24/2025

Specimen Handling

Room Temperature

Collection Instructions

  • Premoisten a culturette swab with sterile saline then insert the swab approximately 2cm into the nares. 
  • Rotate two to three times and remove.

Remarks

  • Gram stain is included in this culture order.
  • Susceptibility testing will be performed on significant isolates.
  • Viral and fungal agents of infection will not be detected by this test.

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