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HelpTest Code MRSA-PCR Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by PCR
Methodology
Real-time Polymerase Chain ReactionNote: No antibiotic sensitivities (minimum inhibitory concentration) will be routinely performed.
Performing Laboratory
Aspen Valley HospitalSpecimen Requirements
Specimen must arrive within 24 hours of collection if stored at room temperature. If delivery to lab will be delayed >24 hours, refrigerate Cepheid swab.
Specimens must be collected using the Cepheid Collection Device (swabs); specimens collected using any other swab are not acceptable for PCR testing. Obtain Cepheid swabs from the AVH Laboratory.
To obtain adequate specimen, follow the instructions in this section closely.
Open the Cepheid Collection Device by peeling back the outer packaging.
Ask the patient to tilt his/her head back. Insert dry swabs approximately 1–2 cm into each nostril.
Rotate the swabs against the inside of the nostril for 3 seconds. Apply slight pressure with a finger on the outside of the nose to help assure good contact between the swab and the inside of the nose.
Using the same swabs, repeat for the second nostril, trying not to touch anything but the inside of the nose.
Remove the plastic transport tube. Twist off the tube cap and discard it. Place the swabs into the plastic transport tube. The swabs should go all the way into the tube until they rest on top of the sponge at the bottom of the tube. Make sure the red cap is on tightly.
Note: the swabs should stay attached to the red cap at all times.
Label the plastic transport tube with patient ID and send to the laboratory.
Note: 1. Collect before start of antibiotic therapy whenever possible.
2. Specimen source is required on request form for processing.