Nasal swabs are taken to detect pathogenic bacteria, but it can also evaluate mucosal cells. Throat swab is most often taken in children, but also in adults suffering from persistent infections. Check how to prepare for a nasal swab and what bacteria are most often detected?
Nasal swabcan be collected at any time of the day in a doctor's office or laboratory, as long as no antibacterial agents, such as drops, are used for 2-3 hours prior to the examination or nasal ointments. The examination is not painful, but may be unpleasant due to the fact that the stick is inserted quite deep into the nostril. You may feel a slight tingling sensation, and your eyes may start to water. It takes a few seconds to collect the sample.
Contents:
- Nasal swab: test procedure
- Nasal swab: indications
Nasal swab: test procedure
The sample is collected by a doctor or nurse using a swab from the so-called transport medium - a special stick finished with sterilized cotton, cotton wool or blotting paper. The person collecting the sample inserts it 3-5 cm into the nose and makes several rotational movements. It literally takes 2-3 seconds. Immediately after removal from the nose, place the sample in a sealed sterile container. This is important because the material cannot be contaminated with "foreign" bacteria, microorganisms not coming from the patient.
Nasal swab: indications
Nasal swab is performed primarily to detect bacteria responsible for inflammation of the nasopharynx, such as golden staphylococcus ( staphylococcus aureus ), streptococcus - pneumoniae ( streptococcus pneumoniae ). A nasal swab is also taken for a quick flu test.
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