Nasal Screen for MSSA/MRSA

Test Code

CNasal

Preferred Specimen

Nares, Nose

Minimum Volume

Instructions

1. Obtain specimen from each nare using a red (Liquid Stuart) culture swab.

2. Remove cap with swab attached. Holding swab between thumb and forefinger of 1 hand and sheath in other hand, give soft wire a 10° to 20° bend. This slight curve fits nose better, making procedure more comfortable for patient.

3. Slide swab along floor of nose (hand down by patient’s chin to start swab) with very light pressure to nasopharyngeal wall.

4. Rotate swab and remove along floor of nose.

5. Place swab in sterile culture transport tube.

6. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), medical record number (if available), date and time of collection, and type of specimen.

7. Maintain sterility and forward promptly.

Note: Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

Transport Container

Red Swab

Reference Range

Normal flora

Performing Laboratory
Indiana Regional Medical Center

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.