Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), NAA

Moisten the swab with two drops (about 50 μL) sterile physiological saline or use it dry. Carefully insert the swab into the patient's nostril (the swab tip must be inserted up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) from the edge of the nares). Roll the swab five times. Insert the same swab into the second nostril and repeat sampling. Place the swab in its container. Label container and ship to the laboratory according to standard operating procedures.

Follow your institution's guidelines for collecting nasal swab specimens using a recommended collection and transport device, or using the following instructions: When using the dual rayon swabs, keep both swabs attached to the red cap at all times. Holding the swab cap with both swabs attached, sample each nare one at a time. Place the dual swab specimens into the transport tube containing the Liquid Stuart Medium.

When using the ESwab, collect the nasal specimen by sampling both nares one at a time with the same swab. Place the swab into the transport tube containing the Liquid Amies Transport Medium (ESwab Medium).

Store specimens at room temperature (15°C to 25°C) for 48 hours or refrigerate (2°C to 8°C) for five days.

Refrigerated (preferred)

Inappropriate transport or storage conditions; name discrepancy or unlabeled specimen; expired swab transport; wire-shaft swab

Inappropriate transport or storage conditions; name discrepancy or unlabeled specimen; expired swab transport; wire-shaft swab; swab broken at scoreline; nonflocked swab received in ESwab transport