SARS-CoV-2 RNA Detection by Nasal Swab with Qualitative Probe Assay
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from the virus that causes COVID-19 in your nasal swab sample. It helps determine if you may have been infected recently.
["A simple nasal swab test to detect COVID-19 virus genetic material for early infection confirmation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94845-5
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Sal Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Sal Ql NAA+probe
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with the virus. It can also be used as part of screening in healthcare settings, travel, or before gatherings where COVID-19 transmission is a concern.
How the Test Works
The test uses a swab to collect a sample from your nasal passage. The sample is then analyzed to detect the virus’s RNA, which is unique to SARS-CoV-2. The result is qualitative—meaning it either confirms or does not confirm the presence of the virus.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may need to avoid eating, drinking, or using nasal decongestants for a short time before the test, depending on your provider’s instructions. Wear a mask if you have symptoms or are in a high-risk setting.
What to Expect During the Test
The test is quick and painless. A healthcare provider will insert a swab into your nose and gently rotate it to collect a sample. You may feel a slight tickle or discomfort, but it usually takes less than a minute.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps identify active COVID-19 infections, which is important for isolating individuals, preventing spread, and guiding treatment decisions. While it detects recent infection, it may not show past exposure or immunity. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and exposure history.
Short name
Nasal SARS-CoV-2 RNA Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I have false-positive or false-negative results?
Does this test tell me if I’m immune to COVID-19?
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