COVID-19 Testing: How to Collect a Nasopharyngeal Swab Specimen

COVID-19 Testing: How to Collect a Nasopharyngeal Swab Specimen

When conducting diagnostic testing for COVID-19, CDC recommends nasopharyngeal swabbing. The specimen should be collected as soon as possible once PUIs are identified, no matter when they become symptomatic.

Steps for Taking a Nasopharyngeal Swab Specimen

1. Wash hands and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
2. Aseptically remove sterile swab from package.
3. Tilt patient’s head back slightly to straighten nasal passage.
4. Insert swab straight back horizontally to the nasopharynx until resistance is met.
5. Rotate swab up to 5 times and hold in place 5-10 seconds to collect sample.
6. Place swab into the viral transport medium and break off handle where indicated.
7. Cap tightly, label with patient information and deliver to lab for testing.

Alternatives to Nasopharyngeal Collection

• An oropharyngeal specimen collected by a healthcare professional (HCP)
• A mid-turbinate specimen collected onsite by patient or HCP using a flocked tapered swab

An anterior nares specimen collected onsite by patient or HCP using a round foam swab