Nasal Swab

What is a nasal swab?

A nasal swab, is a test that checks for viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections.

There are many types of respiratory infections. A nasal swab test can help your provider diagnose the type of infection you have and which treatment would be best for you. The test may be done by taking a sample of cells from your nostrils or from the nasopharynx. The nasopharynx is the uppermost part of your nose and throat.

Other names: anterior nares test, nasal mid-turbinate swab, NMT swab nasopharyngeal culture, nasopharyngeal swab

What is it used for?

A nasal swab is used to diagnose certain infections of the respiratory system.

Why do I need a nasal swab?

You may need this test if you have symptoms of a respiratory infection.

What happens during a nasal swab?

A nasal swab may taken from the:

Front part of your nostrils (anterior nares)

Back of your nostrils, in a procedure known as nasal mid-turbinate (NMT) swab.

Nasopharynx (uppermost part of your nose and throat)

In some cases, a health care provider will ask you to do an anterior nares test or an NMT swab yourself.

During an anterior nares test, you will start by tilting your head back. Then you or the provider will:

Gently insert a swab inside your nostril.

Rotate the swab and leave it in place for 10-15 seconds.

Remove the swab and insert into your second nostril.

Swab the second nostril using the same technique.

Remove the swab.

If you are doing the test yourself, the provider will let you know how to seal your sample.

During an NMT swab, you will start by tilting your head back. Then you or your provider will:

Gently insert a swab onto the bottom of the nostril, pushing it until you feel it stopping.

Rotate the swab for 15 seconds.

Remove the swab and insert into your second nostril.

Swab the second nostril using the same technique.

Remove the swab.

If you are doing the test yourself, the provider will let you know how to seal your sample.