A nasal swab, is a test that checks for viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections.
There are many types of respiratory tract infections. A nasal swab test can help your provider diagnose the type of infection you have and the treatment that is best for you. The test can be done by taking a sample of cells from your nostrils or nasopharynx. The nasopharynx is the uppermost part of the nose and throat.
Synonyms: anterior nostril test, nasal middle turbinate swab, NMT swab nasopharyngeal culture, nasopharyngeal swab
Other names: anterior nares test, nasal mid-turbinate swab, NMT swab nasopharyngeal culture, nasopharyngeal swab.
Nasal swabs are used to diagnose certain respiratory infections. These include
Influenza
New Coronary Pneumonia
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This is a common and usually mild respiratory tract infection. However, it can be dangerous for young babies and the elderly.
Whooping cough, a bacterial infection that causes severe coughing and breathing difficulties.
Meningitis, a disease caused by inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord.
MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), a serious bacterial infection that is very difficult to treat.
Nasopharyngeal Swab
You may need to have this test if you have symptoms of a respiratory infection. These include
Cough
Fever
A stuffy or runny nose
Sore throat
Headache
Fatigue
Muscle aches and pains
A nasal swab may be taken from
At the front of your nostrils (anterior nostrils)
At the back of your nostrils, a procedure called nasal turbinate (NMT) swabbing is used.
Nasopharynx (uppermost part of the nose and throat)
In some cases, healthcare providers may ask you to do either the anterior nostril test or the NMT swab test yourself.
In the anterior nostril test, you will first tilt your head backwards. You or the provider will then
Gently insert the swab into the nostril.
Rotate the swab and leave it in place for 10-15 seconds.
-Remove the swab and insert it into your second nostril.
Wipe the second nostril using the same technique.
Remove the swab.
If you are doing the test yourself, the provider will let you know how to seal your sample.
Nasopharyngeal Swab
When performing the NMT swab, you will first tilt your head back. You or your provider will then.
Gently insert the swab into the bottom of your nostril and push it until you feel it stop.
Rotate the swab for 15 seconds.
Remove the swab and insert it into your second nostril.
Wipe the second nostril using the same technique.
Remove the swab.
If you are doing the test yourself, the supplier will let you know how to seal your sample.
In the nasopharyngeal swab.
You will tilt your head back.
Your healthcare provider will insert the swab into your nostril until it reaches your nasopharynx (upper part of your throat).
Your provider will rotate the swab and remove it.
You do not need to make any special preparations for the nasal swab.
The test may make your throat tickle or cause a cough. A nasopharyngeal swab may be uncomfortable and cause coughing or gagging. All these effects are temporary.
Depending on your symptoms, you may have been tested for one or more types of infection.
A negative result means that no harmful viruses or bacteria were found in your sample.
A positive result means that a specific type of harmful virus or bacteria was found in your sample. It indicates that you have a specific type of infection. If you are diagnosed with an infection, it is important that you follow the advice of your provider to treat your illness. This may include medicines and measures to prevent spreading the infection to others.
If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, it is important to keep in touch with your provider to find out the best way to take care of yourself and protect others from infection. To learn more, check the websites of the CDC and your local health department.
