SARS Coronavirus 2 PCR / COVID-19 PCR / 2019 Novel Coronavirus PCR

Test Code:

BA0348

Synonym(s):

Specimen Container

Use red-capped flocked swab in Universal Transport Medium (UTM) for nasopharyngeal collection.

Specimen Requirement

Nasopharyngeal swab, ETTA, BAL

Specimen Storage / Transport

Please ensure the specimen is double-bagged (transparent inner bag, red outer bag) and contains a visible note for 2019 Novel Coronavirus testing.

Send samples immediately to the laboratory at room temperature after collection, or store at 4°C if delay is anticipated.
Do not send by pneumatic tube system.

Method

Orderable as STAT?

Turn Around Time

4 - 6 hrs (office hours)

Morning cut-off time: 9 am
Afternoon cut-off time: 12.30 pm

Late afternoon cut-off time: 4 pm
Evening cut-off time: 7 pm (results the following day)

Reference Value(s)

Testing Laboratory Location

KKH

Laboratory

Molecular Micro

Contact Number

6394 1382

Day and Time Performed

Mon - Sun: 0800 hrs to 1800 hrs

Orderable on CPOE?

Yes

Downtime Form

Bacteriology, Mycology,Parasitology Tests

Additional Information

All staff are to select the exact indication that is applicable to the scenario when ordering COVID-19 test in CPOE.

1. Meet MOH’s suspect case definition
2. Other clinical conditions via professional judgment, such as extended fever/ARI or atypical symptoms [includes pre-discharge swabs and other MOH-approved indications]
3. Surveillance of confirmed case
4. [NO SUBVENTION] Other reasons not clinically indicated e.g. patient’s/employer’s request

Please contact Dr. Loo Liat Hui (Senior Principal Medical Laboratory Scientist) or Mr. Soong Han Yang (Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist) at 6394 1382 or A/Prof. Matthias Maiwald (Senior Consultant Microbiologist) at 6394 8725 if additional information is required. Please contact the Clinical Infectious Diseases Team with any clinical or infection control questions.