SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Test (Throat Swab) – Qualitative Probe
This test detects genetic material from the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the cause of COVID-19, using a throat swab sample.
["This test helps determine if you have an active COVID-19 infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101289-7
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Throat Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Throat 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
A healthcare provider collects a sample from the back of your throat using a swab. The swab is then tested in a lab to identify the virus’s genetic material. If the test is positive, it means the virus is present in your sample, suggesting an active infection. If negative, it means the virus was not detected in this sample at the time of testing.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may need to avoid eating or drinking for a short time before the test, depending on your healthcare provider’s instructions. Wear a mask if you have symptoms of illness, as the test involves close contact with your throat.
What to Expect After the Test
You may experience mild throat irritation or discomfort after the swab is collected. Most people do not need any special care afterward, but you can rinse your mouth with warm salt water if needed to ease any soreness.
When Results Are Available
Results are typically available within 24 hours, though some labs may take longer. Follow-up instructions from your healthcare provider will guide you on what to do based on your results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for diagnosing active COVID-19 infections. Positive results indicate the presence of the virus and may guide treatment decisions, isolation recommendations, or further testing. Negative results do not always mean you are not infected—testing at the time of the sample may have missed the virus. Repeat testing may be advised if symptoms develop or exposure is suspected.
Frequently asked questions
Why was I asked to take this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get a false positive or false negative result?
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