SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Detection in Respiratory Specimen by Probe-Based Real-Time PCR
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, in a sample taken from your respiratory tract.
["This test helps determine if you have an active COVID-19 infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95608-6
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Resp Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Resp Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-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 specialized machine to detect the virus’s genetic material (RNA) in a sample collected from your nose or throat. If the virus is present, the machine will identify it through a series of chemical reactions involving probes and real-time PCR technology.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to rinse your mouth with saline or water before the test to reduce the risk of contamination. The sample is collected using a long swab inserted into your nose or throat. It’s generally quick and not painful.
What to Expect After the Test
After the sample is collected, it is sent to a lab for processing. Results are typically available within 24 hours, but this can vary by lab. You will receive a call or email with your results if needed.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19. It is also used for screening in healthcare settings, travel, or before returning to work or school.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, suggesting you have an active infection and may spread the virus to others. A negative result means the virus was not detected in the sample at the time of testing, but this does not always mean you are not infected. False negatives can occur, especially if testing is done too early in the illness or if the sample was not collected correctly. This test is critical for guiding isolation and treatment decisions.
Short name
Nucleic Acid Test for COVID-19
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can a negative result mean I still have COVID-19?
How long does it take to get my 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