Specification After Draw (Storage and Stability)
Transport/Storage Conditions: The preferred condition after collection is refrigerated storage at 2-8°C.
Stability:
Refrigerated (2-8°C): Stable for up to 72 hours (3 days).
Ambient (Room Temperature): Stable for a maximum of 4 hours.
Frozen (below -15°C, preferably -70°C): Stable for up to 30 days, if a delay in testing or shipping is expected beyond the refrigerated limit.
Mon-Sat
A day after collection
qPCR
(RML)
RPP
Panel
MRBoPe, MRHaIn, MRKlPn, MRStAu, MRStPn, MRAdenV, MRHuCR, MREd68, MRInAB, MRhMPV, MRPaIn, MRRSVAB, MRSC19, MRCMpn, MREBV
Interference and Rejection Criteria
Interferences:
Improper Specimen Type: Using an incorrect swab material (e.g., cotton or wood) or a non-approved transport medium.
Insufficient Quantity: Not enough specimen quantity or an inadequate collection technique.
Contamination: Specimens that are leaking, appear contaminated (e.g., yellow media), or are excessively bloody may be rejected.
Vaccine Interference: Contamination of specimens with Bordetella pertussis vaccine material can cause false-positive results for that specific pathogen. Recent administration of a nasal influenza vaccine may cause false-positive results for influenza A or B.
Rejection Criteria:
Leaking specimens.
Improperly labeled specimens.
Specimens exceeding the maximum storage time/temperature requirements.
Miscellaneous Instruction to Collector
Patient Instructions: Instruct the patient to blow their nose prior to collection to clear excess mucus.
Collection Technique: Gently insert the mini-tip flocked swab through the nostril, parallel to the palate, until resistance is met (approximately 1-2 inches deep). Rotate the swab several times (2-3 times, or hold for 5-10 seconds) to ensure maximum absorption of cellular material.
Post-Collection Handling: Immediately insert the swab into the transport media tube and break the shaft at the designated breakpoint. Securely attach the cap.
Labeling: Label the container with the patient’s legal name, date, time of collection, and specimen type. This is a critical step for proper patient identification and processing.
Prompt Transport: Transport the specimen to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection.
