Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by PCR, Nasal
Use
This test aids in the assessment for Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in patients presenting with pneumonia. It provides a high negative predictive value, indicating that a negative result is strongly associated with the absence of MRSA pneumonia. The test helps in making informed decisions regarding the discontinuation of antibiotics such as vancomycin in the absence of other clinical indications and can guide further recommendations by Antimicrobial Stewardship or Infectious Diseases departments.
Special Instructions
The test requires a nasal specimen collected with an ESwab, sampling both nares one at a time using the same swab. The specimen must be placed in an individually sealed bag and transported refrigerated. Patients are advised to consult ARUP Client Services for supply orders. The specimen source is mandatory for submission.
Limitations
The performance of the Xpert MRSA NxG test has not been evaluated in patients under two years of age. Specimens transported frozen or from specimen types other than nasal swabs are unacceptable and will lead to test rejection. Rayon swabs are also unsuitable for the test. The test strictly adheres to qualitative analysis, thus it should not be used for other types of analysis or patient conditions not directly associated with MRSA detection in nasal samples.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 72887-3
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Nasal Swab
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Individually sealed bag
Collection Instructions
Collect nasal specimen using an ESwab provided by ARUP, sampling both nares one at a time with the same ESwab.
Storage Instructions
Keep refrigerated after collection.
Causes for Rejection
Specimen types other than nasal swabs, use of rayon swabs, and frozen specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |