MRSA Screening

(Microbiology)

Investigation	MRSA screening
Inform lab before sending	No
Specimen type	Nose & Groin (Combined Swab) Medical Wire (MWE) sigma-transwab duo pack (white topped)
Labelling requirements	The Trust specifies a minimum amount of data on request forms and specimens which is required before requests\specimens can be accepted for analysis. Requests and specimens not meeting these requirements WILL be discarded. All sections of the request form should be completed. Properly completed request forms are essential for the performance of all laboratory tests to the benefit of the patient and the satisfaction of the requesting physician.
How to take specimen and requirements	Ask patient to clear any nasal discharge Wash and dry hand and put on disposable gloves Open swab packet containing 2 swabs and tube Remove white swab from pack Moisten swab bud with sterile injection waters Bring swab to tip of nose, avoiding contact with external skin Insert swab approx. 2cm into one nostril Gently rotate inside nostril for 3-5 seconds Repeat for other nostril using SAME swab Remove white cap from tube and place white swab inside tube Carefully bend white swab against tube until it snaps, discarding the non-swab end Remove remaining red swab from pack Moisten swab bud with sterile injection waters Swab along right and left groin or perineum rubbing from front to back 2-3 times Place swab fully into tube Rub and squeeze bud of red swab against the inside of the tube REMOVE THE RED SWAB from the tube AND DISCARD Tube should now contain ONLY white swab Firmly screw cap back onto the tube. Fill in patient details on the swab and send with matching form to the laboratory
Transport to the laboratory	If transport is delayed then refridgerate sample. delays of over 48 hours are undesirable
Turnround	Results within 3 days of receipt
Additional information	If patient is catheterised send a CSU If there is a wound send a wound swab
Specimen retention	Please ensure that any requests for additional investigations on the specimen are made within 3 days from the date of the original request

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