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Test Code NC Nasal or Sinus Exudate, Culture

Performing Location

Southwestern Vermont Medical Center

Specimen Collection Information

Specimen  Min. Test Volume Collection Container Special Handling
Nasal exudate

 

Mini-tip Culturette Swab

 Keep specimen at room temperature. Use aseptic technique throughout entire collection procedure

Reference Ranges & Critical Values

Assay Gender Age Range Normal Range Critical Values Units
NC ALL 0 Minutes – 150 Years Normal oropharyngeal flora    

Collection Instructions

  1. Select a Mini-tip Culturette to obtain the sample. Remove the swab from the transport tube.

  2. For nasal swabs, insert the sterile swab into the nose until resistance is met at the level of the turbinates (approximately 1 inch into the nose).

  3. Rotate the swab against the nasal mucosa.

  4. Repeat the process on the other side.

  5. For nasopharyngeal swabs, carefully insert the flexible-wire tipped swab through the nose into the posterior nasopharynx, and rotate the swab gently. Allow it to remain for 20 to 30 seconds. (Keep the swab near the septum and floor of the nose).

  6. Withdraw the swab gently and return it to the transport tube.

  7. Crush the ampule of transport media while holding the ampule upward.

​​​​​​​NOTE: If unable to insert the swab through the nose, the swab may be bent at a right-angle near the tip by bending it against the inside of the sterile transport tube. It may then be inserted through the mouth and behind the uvula and soft palate into the nasopharynx.

Day(s) Performed

Monday - Sunday

CPT

87070

LOINC

10353-1