Physician Office Specimen Requirements

1. Collect nasopharyngeal specimen using a foam-tipped swab from OSOM® Influenza A and B Test Kit supplied. Mini-Tip CULTURETTE^TM is also acceptable.

2. Gently insert swab into nostril that presents the most secretion under visual inspection.

3. Using gentle rotation, push swab until resistance is met at level of turbinates (at least 1 inch into nostril).

4. Rotate swab against nasal wall, and remove swab.

5. Return swab to transport tube to ensure specimen preservation.

6. Label specimen with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.

7. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature. If there is a delay in transport of ≥8 hours, send specimen refrigerated.

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