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Test Code LAB4611 MRSA & STAPH AUREUS NASAL SCREEN PCR

Specimen Type

Source: Nasal cavity swab

 

Specimen: ESwab (Liquid Amies)

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

MRSA: Positive or Negative

MSSA: Positive or Negative

Synonyms

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

CPT Codes

87641, 87640

Collection Instructions

Obtain nasal swab. 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.

Test Components

Staphylococcus aureus, amplified probe technique

Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin resistant, amplified probe technique

Rejection Criteria

Samples that have been frozen or exposed to excessive heat.

Only nares specimens are acceptable for the PCR assay.

Incorrect or expired transport media, leaking specimen.

Test Limitations

Erroneous test results might occur from improper specimen collection.

A positive test result does not necessarily indicate the presence of viable organisms.