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Test Code STREPA Group A Strep Screen Rapid, Throat

Methodology

Immunochromatographic Dipstick

All negative results will automatically be cultured to confirm the absence of group A strep at an additional charge.

If physicians office has already performed the rapid strep A test, the Aspen Valley Hospital laboratory offers a separate confirmatory test. 

Performing Laboratory

Aspen Valley Hospital

Physician Office Specimen Requirements

Specimen must be tested ≤24 hours after collection.

 

1. Obtain specimen using 2 sterile rayon swabs. Single swab submission will have only the 48-hour culture performed.

2. Remove cap and swab from tubes.
3. Tilt patient’s head back to assist in opening of mouth as wide as possible.
4. If patient has complained of 1 spot being sore, swab that area well.
5. In 1 continuous motion:
A. Swab 1 tonsillar area up then down.
B. Move to back of throat as far down as possible and swab there.
C. Move to other tonsillar area and swab.
6. Return swab to tube to ensure specimen preservation.

7. Swab with wooden shaft, calcium alginate, or cotton tip is not acceptable.

8. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.
9. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only.

Reference Values

Negative

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87880 - streptococcus group A

87081 - confirmatory culture