Advanced Diagnostic Laboratories | National Jewish Health | Clinical Laboratory | ISO 15189

Rapid MRSA Detection, Skin

Test Code

SMRSA

Description

Collect

Cepheid Sample Collection Device-COPAN LQ Stuart Swabs (Cat # 900-0370)

Patient Prep

For Nasal Screen, if possible, have the patient blow their nose prior to sample collection.

Pediatric Collection

Same as adult.

Unacceptable Conditions

Improperly labeled/identified specimens.
Specimens which exceed stability limits.
Expired collection device/swab.
Collection of specimen with non-approved swabs.
Improper specimen type
Received Frozen

Interfering Substances:

Inhibition of MRSA/SA SSTI Assay has been observed with the following substances: StaphA +Septic (5% w/v), Hydrocortisone (5% w/v) and antibacterial hand sanitizer (5% w/v).
Samples containing Mercurochrome may not be used due to its fluorescent nature.
Blood, excessive nasal secretions/mucus, decongestants and substances used to relieve nasal dryness or irritation may inhibit PCR and give unresolved results.

Storage Transport Temp

Transport in ≤24 hrs. at room temperature.

Storage conditions if transport time will be exceeded: Refrigerate at 2-8ºC.

Stability

Room temperature (15 - 30°C): ≥24 hours

Refrigerated (2 - 8°C): 5 days

Frozen: Unacceptable

Notes

The Cepheid Sample Collection Device-COPAN LQ Stuart Swabs (Cat # 900-0370) is the only acceptable collection device for the rapid PCR MRSA. Nasal Screen and for rapid PCR MRSA/SA Skin and Soft Tissue Test.

Performed

7 Days a Week

Methodology

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Turnaround Time

1 Day

Department

Microbiology Lab

Synonyms

-methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
-staph;RMRSA
-MRSA
-Rapid MRSA
-Staph aureus

Related Tests

N/A

Reference Interval

Negative. No methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus detected by PCR (Amplified Probe).

Interpretation

This assay is used to detect the presence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) DNA in a patient's anterior nares or skin and soft tissue. The use of real-time PCR to detect the presence of MRSA DNA in clinical specimens allows for rapid patient testing.