Specimen Type

Inpatient: Nasopharyngeal swab in 3 ml viral transport media

Outpatient: Hologic RespDirect™ Collection Kit (eDLT)

1. Partially peel open the swab package. Remove the swab

2. Tilt patient’s head back 70 degrees. Gently and slowly insert the swab through the nostril parallel to the palate (not upwards) until resistance is encountered or the distance is equivalent to that from the ear to the nostril of the patient, indicating contact with the nasopharynx. Swab should reach the depth equal to the distance from nostrils to outer opening of the ear. Gently rub and roll the swab. Leave the swab in place for several seconds to absorb secretions. Slowly remove the swab while rotating

3. Immediately place the swab into the tube so that the score line is at the top of the tube

4. Carefully break the swab shaft at the score line against the side of the tube

5. Tightly screw the cap onto the tube