SARS-CoV-2 RNA Detection by Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) from Tracheal Aspirate
This test checks for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, the virus responsible for COVID-19, using a sample taken from your trachea (windpipe). It helps confirm if you have an active infection.
["This test helps diagnose COVID-19 by detecting the virus’s genetic material in your respiratory tract sample."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 105748-8
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Tracheal asp Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Tracheal asp 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 recommend 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 the virus. It’s also used to monitor recovery or check for reinfection in certain settings.
How the Test Works
A healthcare professional will collect a sample from your trachea using a thin tube inserted through your nose or mouth. The sample is then tested in a lab to detect the virus’s RNA, which is amplified and analyzed to confirm infection.
Sample Collection Process
The procedure is quick and generally well-tolerated. You may experience mild discomfort or a slight cough, but it’s not painful. You’ll likely be asked to sit upright or lie down while the sample is taken.
What to Expect After the Test
You can usually return to your normal activities immediately after the test. If you experience any unusual discomfort, contact your healthcare provider. Results may take a few days to arrive, depending on lab processing times.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Test (Tracheal Aspirate)
Frequently asked questions
This test is critical for diagnosing COVID-19, guiding treatment decisions, and controlling outbreaks. Positive results indicate an active infection, while negative results may mean you’re not currently infected but could still be at risk if exposed recently.
A negative result means the test did not detect the virus’s genetic material at the time of testing. However, this does not always mean you are not infected. You may still need to monitor for symptoms or get tested again if you develop signs of illness or were exposed recently.
You can eat and drink normally before the test, as no special preparation is needed. However, follow any specific instructions your healthcare provider gives you for your procedure.
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