SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Gene Test (Qualitative, Qualitative PCR)
This test checks for the genetic material of the virus that causes COVID-19 in a sample collected from your respiratory tract. It helps determine if you have an active infection.
["A COVID-19 PCR test can confirm if you’re currently infected with the virus responsible for COVID-19."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94308-4
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 N gene Spec Ql NAA N2
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 N gene Spec Ql NAA N2
- 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-cdc-primer-probe-set-n
- 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 swab to collect a sample from your upper respiratory tract (like your nose or throat). The sample is then analyzed in a lab to detect the virus’s genetic material. If the virus is present, the test can identify specific genes unique to SARS-CoV-2.
When You Might Need This Test
This test is commonly used when you have symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with the virus. It may also be used as part of screening before travel, in healthcare settings, or during outbreaks.
Sample Collection Process
You’ll likely have a quick, painless procedure where a healthcare provider inserts a swab into your nose or throat to collect a sample. The swab is then sent to a lab for testing.
What to Expect After Testing
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the lab’s processing time. If you’re tested as part of a healthcare visit, results may be discussed with you by your provider.
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 you have the virus and may spread it to others. It helps guide treatment decisions, isolation recommendations, and public health measures to control outbreaks. A negative result doesn’t always mean you’re completely clear of the virus, especially if you’ve been exposed recently.
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Detection (PCR)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get a false positive or false negative?
How long does it take to get results?
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