COVID-19 PCR

Pathology category

Microbiology - Virology

Code

COV2

Referral code

Request form

ICE request ONLY

Test information

PCR test to detect presence of SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19) RNA in nose/throat swabs or respiratory samples. Not currently validated for any other sample type. Tests performed in a UKAS Accredited Medical Laboratory No. 8873.

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Please refer to trust testing guidelines and swabbing procedure.- Hand hygiene must be undertaken, and appropriate PPE donned.- A throat swab is the minimum requirement for diagnosis – In the case of COVID-19 swabs ensure viral media tube is pre-labelled with patient details to avoid handling after swabbing.

Reference range

Reported as DETECTED or NOT DETECTED

Tube type

Tube type info

Green top viral swab tube

Special requirements

Minimum volume

Prefilled tube

Assay frequency

Daily

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

24 hours

TAT Inpatient

24 hours

TAT GP/Outpatient

24 hours

Referral lab