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Test Code MRSA.SA.NARES MRSA/S.AUREUS PCR, NARES

Important Note

Ambient specimen must arrive within 36 hours of collection.

Methodology

Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)/DNA Probe Hybridization

(PCR is utilized pursuant to a license agreement with Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.)

 

Useful for the direct detection of colonization of nares by Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA; and to aid in the prevention and control of MRSA infections in health care settings.

Specimen Requirements

Ambient specimen must arrive within 36 hours of collection.

 

Container/Tube: White Eswab (#72732), Red top double swabs are discontinued

Specimen Type: NARES

Specimen Volume: Entire specimen
Collection Instructions:

  1. Moisten swab with 2 drops of sterile saline or use it dry.
  2. Carefully insert swab into nostril (swab tip must be inserted up to 2.5 cm from edge of nares).
  3. Roll swab 5 times.
  4. Insert same swab into second nostril and roll 5 times.
  5. Return swab to  container to preserve specimen.
  6. Label container with patient’s legal name, date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.

 

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Friday

Batched Daily

 

STAT Available 24/7

Maximum Laboratory Time

24 hours

Specimen Stability

 

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Swab Ambient 36 hours
  Refrigerate 5 days
  Frozen NO

Reference Values

Not detected

Performing Laboratory

Logan Health Medical Center Laboratory

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87640-Staphylococcus aureus amplified probe

87641-MRSA