Test Code Billings Clinic: 0116 Influenza Antigen, Cody Lab, Nasal

Performing Laboratory

Billings Clinic Laboratory

Test is specific to influenza types A and B.

Specimen must be tested as soon as possible after collection. Do not use any kind of transport media to store or transport specimen.

1. Collect nasal specimen using a culture transport swab.

2. Insert sterile swab into nostril that presents the most secretion under visual inspection.

3. Using a gentle rotation, push swab until resistance is met at level of turbinates (less than 1 inch into nostril).

4. Rotate swab a few times against nasal mucosa.

5. Return swab to culture transport tube.

6. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.

7. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only. Do not refrigerate.

Note: Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

Negative (reported as positive or negative)

87804

Laboratory Department(s): Cody Microbiology

Billings Clinic Cody Clinic Only