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Test Code LAB4611 MRSA & STAPH AUREUS NASAL SCREEN

Specimen Type

Preferred Specimen: Liquid Amies (ESwab)

Ambient Specimen: Liquid Stuart (Red top)

Collection Instructions

Obtain nasal swab. Insert one or both dry swabs 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 swabs. Place the swab(s) back into the transport media.

 

Repeat procedure for ESwab (one swab instead of two)

Turnaround Time

4 hours

Test Schedule

Daily 0600-2100

 

Sample Stability

ESwab:
Room Temp: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 48 hours
 

Liquid Stuart:
Room Temp: 24 hours
Refrigerated: 5 days

Method

BD Max PCR assay

Reference Ranges

MRSA: Positive

MRSA: Negative

Synonyms

MRSA and MSSA, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus and Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus Aureus, MRSA and Staph Aureus Nasal Screen

Test Components

MRSA Nasal PCR

CPT Codes

87641, 87640

Rejection Criteria

Samples that have been frozen or exposed to excessive heat. Only nares specimens are acceptable for the PCR assay

Test Limitations

Protect from freezing or exposure to excessive heat