Test Code LAB885 Group A Streptococcus Screen, Rapid, Throat
Reporting Title
Strep A Rapid Molecular
Methodology
Useful for establishing presence of group A beta-hemolytic streptococci.
Performing Laboratory
OhioHealth Laboratory Services-RMH, GMC, DNH, DMH, MGH, GMH, HMH, GCMH, DHC, WECC, PMH, MH, SH, BH and OBH Core Laboratories.
Specimen Requirements
Obtain specimen using an eSwab Collection and Transport System as follows:
1. Remove cap and swab from tube.
2. Tilt patient’s head back to assist in opening of mouth as wide as possible.
3. Depress tongue with a tongue depressor so swab does not touch tongue.
4. If patient has complained of 1 spot being sore, swab that area well.
5. In 1 continuous motion:
A. Swab 1 tonsillar area up then down.
B. Move to back of throat as far down as possible and swab there.
C. Move to other tonsillar area and swab.
D. Swab behind uvula and remove swab.
6. Return swab to sterile Collection and Transport System.
7. Label tubes with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.
8. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only.
Specimen Stability: 48 hours at ambient and refrigerated
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient: OK
Refrigerate: OK
Frozen: NO
Reference Values
Not detected (reported as detected or not detected)
This screen will not identify and isolate other causative agents of pharyngitis. Adequate specimen collection on younger patients may be difficult and thus contribute to the false-negative rate. A detected result can be relied upon as a rational basis to begin therapy.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday; Continuously
Test Classification and CPT Coding
87651