Correct Execution of the Nasopharyngeal Swab: A Fundamental Method to Improve Diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 Infection

J Dr Nurs Pract. 2021 Jun 9:JDNP-D-20-00040. doi: 10.1891/JDNP-D-20-00040. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Background: Severe acute respiratory infection Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has spread all over the world since December 2019. Treatment of the syndrome represents an important challenge for all physicians. Spread prevention relies on a correct diagnosis which is performed with nasopharyngeal swabs.

Objective: To describe the proper execution of the swab with a few simple steps.

Methods: Figures and video recording.

Results: A few simple steps are presented within this paper in order to perform easily nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-Cov-2 diagnosis and for other possible infectious diseases of the airways tract.

Conclusions and implication for nursing: Nasopharyngeal swab may be performed in an easier way than usually thought. This method may also be used for any other microorganism detection. By following simple steps, a correct diagnosis can easily be obtained.

Keywords: COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2 infection; nasopharyngeal swab; nasopharynx.