1. Collect Sample:
1. Remove the swab from its package, being careful not to touch the tip of the swab. Please keep the swab package for later use for the disposal of the used swab.
Gently insert the entire absorbent tip of the swab (usually 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch) into nostril.
2. Firmly and slowly brush against the insides of nostril in a circular motion against the nasal wall at least 5 times. Using the same swab repeat the same sample collection procedure for the other nostril. Take at least 15 seconds to collect the specimen and be sure to collect any nasal drainage on the swab. Be sure to brush BOTH nostrils with the SAME SWAB.
Note: Failure to swab both nostrils properly may cause false negative results.
Note: Swab samples should be tested within 4 hours after sample collection, if kept at room temperature. Alternatively, for swabs that have been extracted into the buffer, the extracted sample should be tested within 2 hours, if kept at room temperature.
2. Process Sample:
1. Tap the Tube vertically on the table, twist the large cap to open the Tube.
Note: Invalid results may occur if less than the allotted amount of extraction buffer in the Tube is used. If extraction buffer in the Tube is spilled, discard the Tube and use a new extraction reagent Tube.
2. Insert the swab into the Tube, touch the bottom of the Tube with the swab tip, and stir 10 times.
3. Squeeze the sides of the Tube to extract as much liquid as possible from the swab, and remove the swab.
Note: If you don’t squeeze the swab, there may not be sufficient sample material to perform the test properly (i.e., potentially resulting in a false negative result).
4. Replace the large cap onto the Tube and twist it to close. Put the swab back into the package. Safely dispose of the swab and the package in biohazardous waste.
3. Add Sample:
Twist to open the small cap of the Tube. Add 3 drops of sample to the Sample Port of the COVID-19 Test Card. Replace the small white cap, and twist it into place.
Note: A false negative or invalid result may occur if too little sample is added to the test card.
4. Wait 15 minutes:
Start timing immediately after adding the sample to the Sample Port. The result will be ready in 15-30 minutes.
Note: Do NOT interpret the result until after your 15-minute timer has completed, because the T Line may take as long as 15 minutes to appear.
Note: False results may occur if the test is read before 15 minutes or after 30 minutes.