Pathology | Eastern Health

Test & Collection Guide

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Respiratory Virus PCR

Ordering information:

NB: requests for COVID-19 PCR will automatically have this test added.

SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS

Collect a combined nose & throat swab, or a nasopharyngeal swab.

Swabs MUST be collected using UTM Viral transport media (green top or red top tubes)

EMR orders MUST specify collection site

Urgent testing is available at each site but sample must be accompanied by a Rapid Approval Request form (available via Objectify Policy 244). Routine testing is performed at Box Hill Microbiology Dept.

Sputum, Bronchial Washings, Bronchoalveolar Lavages are referred to an external laboratory for testing.

All other requests for multiplex PCR require approval from the Clinical Microbiologist

Alternate names:

Influenza NAD, Respiratory Viral NAD, RSV NAD

Laboratory:

Microbiology

Test Code:

RESPCR

Specimen types:

Nasopharyngeal swab
NTS - nose & throat swab
Nasopharyngeal Aspirate
Sputum
Bronchial Washings
Broncho-alveolar Lavage

Container types:

Viral Transport Media- Nasopharyngeal
Respiratory aspiration pot
respiratory PCR requirements

Collection Instructions:

Please note these swabs are available from stores.

Pathology do not keep a stock of these swabs. Emergency departments and wards should manage a supply of these swabs according to demand.

Notes:

This PCR will detect and identify: Influenza A virus, Influenza B virus and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Transport at room temperature to the Laboratory

Testing is performed at Box Hill, Angliss, and Maroondah.

Testing Lab

Testing hours

TAT (from receipt in lab)

All sites

Available 24/7

6-12 hrs routine

2 hours (rapid approval form required)

DO NOT send samples in the Pathology Chute

For Rapid testing from Emergency Department - swab must be accompanied by signed Rapid Test Authorisation Form.

DO NOT call the laboratory for results/enquiries. Inpatient tests will be prioritised and results available on EMR ASAP.

Sputum samples are referred to an external laboratory - results will be delayed.

Frequency:

Daily

Result Turnaround Time:

6-12 hours

Laboratory Use Only

Laboratory Notes:

The following specimens will be referred for testing-

Sputum, Bronchial Washings, Bronchoalveolar Lavages - VIDRL

As of Feb 2023 swab specimens for Respiratory Multiplex PCR will be tested in-house.