SARS-CoV-2/Influenza/RSV NAAT

TEST DESCRIPTION

Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) that detects severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), influenza A, influenza B, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) RNA by multiplexed reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in patients with a respiratory tract infection. 

Methodology

RT-PCR

Reference range

Negative for each virus

TEST FREQUENCY & RESULT AVAILABILITY

Performed daily. Results are typically available one business day after specimen receipt. 

ACCEPTABLE SPECIMEN TYPES AND COLLECTION

• Preferred: Nasopharyngeal swab in viral transport medium (VTM) or universal transport medium (UTM)
• Anterior nasal swab in VTM or UTM
• Detailed collection instructions appear below

SPECIMEN STORAGE & TRANSPORT

Store and transport at room temperature (15–30°C/59–86°F) for up to 48 hours or refrigerated (2–8°C/36–46°F) for up to 7 days.

REJECTION CRITERIA

• Holding time greater than 48 hours at room temperature
• Holding time greater than 7 days at refrigerated temperature
• Specimen container not labeled 
• Specimen container has leaked or is not sealed properly 
• Swab specimens that are missing the swab, contain multiple swabs, or contain the wrong swab

CODES

CPT: 87637
LOINC: 95941-1
Test code: 52000

TEST FEE

Refer to the current fee schedule.

DETAILED SPECIMEN COLLECTION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Collect respiratory specimens during acute phase of illness
2. Nasopharyngeal swab in VTM or UTM
   1. Ask the patient to blow their nose to clear their nasal passage and tilt the patient’s head backwards.
   2. Swiftly insert the small swab into one nostril straight back (not upwards) at a depth equal to distance from nostrils to outer opening of the ear (see image). 
   3. Firmly rotate the swab up to 5 times and hold in place for 5-10 seconds to collect epithelial cells. 
   4. Repeat with the other nostril using the same swab. 
   5. Snap the swab at the scored breakpoint line; place swab into VTM or UTM tube; close the tube tightly and place in a biohazard bag.
3. Anterior nasal swab in VTM or UTM
   1. Tilt patient’s head back 70 degrees.
   2. While gently rotating the swab, insert  swab less than one inch into nostril (until resistance is met at turbinates).
   3. Rotate the swab several times against nasal wall.
   4. Repeat in other nostril using the same swab.
   5. Place the swab into VTM or UTM.