
Overview
This module describes how to swab the oropharynx or nasopharynx.
Indications
Contraindications
Patient information and consent
Always verify your patient’s identity and obtain informed consent before proceeding.
How do I explain this procedure?
“I need to check for infections in your nose or throat by taking a swab of the back of your throat through your mouth/nose. We will send this swab to the lab for testing.”
What can my patient expect?
“The swab looks like a long earbud. I will touch it to your tonsils and the back of your throat, OR the back of your nose. You may feel like gagging, OR it may burn a bit, but it will be more uncomfortable than painful.”
What is my patient’s role?
“Keep your mouth open and relax your tongue. Try not to move while I take the specimen.”
Preparation

Documentation
Equipment
Site & Positioning
Position the patient seated, preferably with their head against a headrest and tilted slightly backwards.

Procedure
Follow medical asepsis with appropriate PPE.
Oropharyngeal swab
Nasopharyngeal swab
Troubleshooting
I am meeting resistance before my swab is inserted to the estimated depth.
Make sure you are advancing in the horizontal plane and not upwards. Rotate the swab and try to advance again. If unsuccessful, try the other nostril.