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Test Code MRSA-SA PRE-OP MRSA/SA(PCR) NARES SCRN

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 in the pre-operative population.

Additional Codes

LAB1368

Performing Laboratory

Porter Hospital Laboratory

Specimen Requirements

Source: Nares

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

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

      swabs. Place both swabs back in the tube. It is important

     that the swabs contains material from both nostrils.

6.  Remove the plastic transport tube.

7.  Twist off the tube cap and discard.

8.  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.

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

Specimen Transport Temperature

Room temperature (15-30 °C) if less than 24 hours

Refrigerate (2-8 oC) if greater than 24 hours

The specimen is stable up to 4 days when stored refrigerated (2-8 °C).

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

Daily /  Not Available STAT / Reporting time - 2 - 8 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.