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HelpTest Code LAB4610 MRSA NASAL SCREEN PCR
Specimen Type
ESwab (Liquid Amies)
Collection Instructions
Insert dry swab 1-2 cm into the nostril and rotate against the inside of the nostril. Circle inside the nose 5 times while applying pressure with a finger to the outside of the nose. Repeat in the second nostril with the same swab. Place the swab back into the transport media.
Turnaround Time
4 hours
Test Schedule
Daily 0500-2300
Sample Stability
Preferably processed within 2 hours of collection
Room Temp: 24 hours
Refrigerated: 7 days
Method
Cepheid GeneXpert Real-time PCR assay
Reference Ranges
Detected
Not Detected
Synonyms
MRSA Screen, MRSA Nasal Screen, MRSA Surveillance culture
Test Components
Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin resistant, amplified probe technique
CPT Codes
87641
Rejection Criteria
Samples that have been frozen or exposed to excessive heat.
Only nares/nasal specimens are acceptable for the PCR assay.
Incorrect or expired transport media, leaking specimen.
Test Limitations
The performance of this test has not been evaluated in patients less than two years of age.
A positive test result does not necessarily indicate the presence of viable organisms.
A negative test result does not exclude the possibility of nasal colonization if the specimen was improperly collected or the organisms in the sample is below the limit of detection of the test.