SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein Gene Qualitative PCR Test (Respiratory Specimen)
This test detects genetic material from the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, using a sample from your respiratory tract. It helps determine if you have an active infection.
["A COVID-19 PCR test that checks for the virus’s genetic material in your respiratory secretions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95522-9
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 N gene Resp NAA+probe-Log#
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 N gene Resp NAA+probe-Log#
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
How the Test Works
The test uses a process called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify tiny fragments of the virus’s genetic material. A swab sample is collected from your nose or throat, and lab technicians analyze it for the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein gene. If the virus is present, the test will detect it.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a nasal or throat swab performed by a healthcare provider. Some people may experience mild discomfort or irritation, but it usually lasts only a few minutes. If you have a cold or sore throat, you might feel more sensitive during the swab.
What to Expect After the Test
After the test, you may experience mild side effects like mild irritation, soreness, or a slight cough. These are temporary and should resolve quickly. Avoid blowing your nose vigorously immediately after the test to prevent spreading any sample material.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of COVID-19 (such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath), have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or are in a setting where testing is required (e.g., travel, workplace, or school). It can also be used for screening or monitoring in high-risk situations.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for diagnosing active COVID-19 infections. A positive result means the virus is present in your respiratory tract, indicating an active infection that may require treatment or isolation. A negative result means the test did not detect the virus at the time of sampling, but it’s possible you could still be infected if symptoms develop later. Results can vary based on timing of testing relative to symptom onset.
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid PCR (Respiratory)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my test results be negative even if I think I have COVID-19?
How soon will I get my test results?
Can I get this test at home?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy