What to pay attention to when collecting nasal swabs

Nasal swabs are generally used for throat sampling of respiratory viruses such as influenza, swine flu, bird flu, and hand, foot and mouth. So, what should be paid attention to when collecting nasal swabs?

1. Notes on samplers:

1. The sampler stands at the side of the subject to take the sample.

2. The subject is required to pull down the mask to expose only the nostrils. Once the sneeze reflex occurs, the subject can be covered with an elbow or a tissue. The sampler is not directly in front of the subject, and the risk of exposure will be reduced.

3. If the subject's turbinate is hypertrophic and the nasal passage is narrow, and the nasal swab feels resistance when inserted, it is not possible to rashly force it. You can try to change the nasal cavity or directly change to the oropharyngeal swab for collection.

4. People with nasal allergy symptoms can easily induce sneezing. It is recommended to take an oropharyngeal swab.

5. Remember to wear a protective mask/screen. For those who are highly suspected or basically diagnosed, or those with severe cough and hiccup, they should put on protective clothing.

6. After the sampling, the gloves should be changed, the hands should be sanitized and disinfected.

7. It is best to store the collected specimens in the refrigerator and transport them to the laboratory or a place where they can be tested within 24 hours.

8. If it cannot be sent to the laboratory in time for testing, it needs to be stored at -70°C.

2. Precautions for the subjects to do nasal swabs:

1. Please do not take antibiotics a few days before the nasal swab.

2. Do not use disinfectant mouthwash or smear on the affected area a few hours before the nasal swab.

3. Do not eat, smoke, or drink for a few hours before the nasal swab.