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Test & Collection Guide

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COVID-19 PCR

Ordering information:

Test for detection of SARS-CoV-2 virus, the causative agent of COVID-19.

Alternate names:
COVID, SARS-CoV-2
Laboratory:
Microbiology
Test Code:
RESPCO
Specimen types:
Nasopharyngeal swab
NTS - nose & throat swab
Sputum
Container types:
Viral Transport Media - Nasopharyngeal
Viral Transport Media- Nasopharyngeal		Viral Transport Media- Nasopharyngeal
Collection Instructions:

Nasal/oropharyngeal swab in RED Copan viral transport medium (or GREEN Kang Jian viral transport medium)

Paediatric - Nasopharyngeal swab in RED Copan viral transport medium

Notes:

Samples MUST be in a clear specimen bag within an outer GREEN specimen bag

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
Laboratory Use Only
Laboratory Notes:

Any requests for rapid Xpert COVID/flu testing that arrive from Box Hill ED between 1:30 am and 5:00am will be processed by haem/chem scientists on site, noting that the TAT for this test at BHH is 2 to 4 hours. In the event of e.g. an MTP or analyser issues requiring scientist attention, Xpert samples can be processed as soon as haem/chem are able.

External Laboratory:
Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (V.I.D.R.L)
 External Laboratory details...