Directions for Obtaining A Nasopharyngeal Aspirate (NPA)

1. Obtain the viral transport medium (VTM) and label the mucus trap with patient information. Check the VTM expiration date before use.
   
   
   
   
   Check the VTM expiration date before use.

2. Attach the suction catheter to the mucus trap, and connect it to the suction apparatus.

3. Measure the distance, from the patient's nostril to the nasopharynx (which is half the distance from the nostril to the base of the ear) and hold the tubing at that location. Do not move fingers or advance the tube beyond that point.

4. Start the suction and pass the tube along the base of one nostril into the nasopharynx.

5. Apply suction to obtain secretions from the nasopharynx. Sample both nostrils with the same suction catheter, without moving the measured position.

6. Rinse the suction catheter by suctioning the viral transport media through the catheter. The beads in the media may be aspirated but this is not necessary.

7. Complete Pathology 6 requisition slip and indicate for Influenza antigen and culture. The same specimen can be sent for RSV also.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   The arrows indicate the items that need to be filled in

8. Deliver the specimen to the microbiology lab within ONE HOUR of obtaining the specimen. The pneumatic tube may not be used.