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Test Code MRSA-PMC MRSA (PCR) SCREEN 2 HR (NARES)

Important Note

Samples are assayed for the presence of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) DNA  and Methicillin Sensitive Staph aureus (MSSA or SA) using real time PCR.

Infectious

Additional Codes

LAB1368

Performing Laboratory

Porter Hospital Laboratory

Specimen Requirements

Source: Nasal

Specimen Type: Cepheid Collection Device with 2 swabs

Collection Instructions:

1. PATIENT MUST NOT HAVE USED THE FOLLOWING

    INHALED NASAL STEROIDS WITHIN 2 HOURS PRIOR

    TO COLLECTION: FLONASE AND NASONEX

2. PATIENT MUST BE 21 YEARS OLD OR OLDER

3. Hold the swabs by the cap in which they are embedded. 

    Insert both swabs 1-2 cm into the nostril and rotate against

    the inside of the nostril for 3 seconds while applying

    pressure with a finger on the outside of the nose..

4. Repeat the process in the other nostril using both/same

    swabs.  It is important that the swabs contains material from both nostrils.

5. Remove the plastic transport tube.

6. Twist off the tube cap and discard.

7. 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.

8  The swabs should stay attached to the red cap at all times.

 

Specimen Transport Temperature

Room Temperature or Refrigerated

  • If swab specimen will be tested within 24 hours, store/transport swabs

    at room temperature (15-30o C)

  • The sample is stable refrigerated (2-8o C) for 4 days.

 

Test Classification and CPT code

87640; 87641

Test Schedule / Analytical Time / Test Priority / Turn Around Time

Daily / Not Available STAT / 2 Hours

 

Methodology

PCR - Detects MRSA and MSSA Only

Normal Reference Values

MRSA Negative; Methicillin Resistant Staph aureus DNA NOT detected.

SA Negative: Methicillin Sensitive Staph aureus DNA NOT detected.

 

Results of this assay should be interpreted in conjunction with other

laboratory and clinical data available to the clinician and should be

used as an adjunct to nosocomial infection control efforts to identify

patients needing enhanced precautions. Results should not be used

to monitor treatment for Methicillin Resistant Staph aureus (MRSA) or

Staph aureus (SA or Staph Coag Positive) infections.

A positive test result does NOT necessarily indicate the presence of

viable organisma. It is however, presumptive for the presence of

MRSA or SA.

A negative test does not preclude MRSA or SA nasal colonization.

Critical Value

Positive MRSA PCR results are reported to the

Infection Control Office and called to the Physician.