Ordering Guidance

This test is appropriate for lower respiratory specimens only. For nasopharyngeal swab specimens, order RP / Respiratory Panel, PCR, Nasopharyngeal.

This assay is not predicted to detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), or SARS-CoV2, the virus that causes COVID-19. This test should only be ordered in cases of suspected acute lower respiratory tract infection and in conjunction with routine diagnostic testing, including respiratory culture and blood cultures.

It is not recommended that the following tests be concomitantly ordered when this test is ordered:

-HPFLU / Influenza Virus Type A and Type B, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) RNA, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies

-LADV / Adenovirus, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies

-MPRP / Mycoplasma (Mycoplasmoides) pneumoniae with Macrolide Resistance Reflex, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies

Additional Testing Requirements

It is recommended that the following testing be ordered with this test:

-SPUTS / Bacterial Culture, Aerobic, Respiratory with Antimicrobial Susceptibilities, Varies

-GRAM / Gram Stain, Varies

Shipping Instructions

Specimens must arrive within 24 hours of collection.

Necessary Information

Specimen source is required.

Specimen Required

Patient Preparation: Have patient rinse their mouth with water immediately prior to specimen collection. This reduces the number of contaminating oropharyngeal bacteria.

Specimen Type: Lower respiratory

Sources: Sputum, induced sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage, tracheal secretions

Container/Tube: Sterile container

Specimen Volume: Entire specimen

Collection Instructions: An early-morning expectorated sputum is preferred.