How to Use COPAN's Flocked Swabs (FLOQSwabs™) and UTM™ for Nasopharyngeal Sample Collection

This video is intended for nurses, lab technicians and other clinical staff, and provides simple step-by-step instructions for using Copan's flocked swabs (FLOQSwabs™) and UTM for nasopharyngeal sample collection. For respiratory virus detection, the nasopharynx is the preferred sample site and a flocked swab with a small tip and flexible shaft, or nasal aspirate is the means for collection. Scientific studies show that flocked swabs are equivalent in efficacy to the more invasive nasal aspirate. The velvet brush texture of a flocked swab helps to dislodge infected cells, and the perpendicular arrangement of the fibers absorb sample by capillarity. Specimen collection should be performed by health care personnel who have completed training and demonstrated competency. Always read the manufacturer’s package insert for specific instruction regarding specimen collection and transport for the type of test kit being used. For best results, follow steps outlined in this video and briefly summarized here: • Check for nasal obstructions that may interfere with sampling • With the patient’s head tilted slightly back, gently insert the swab into the nostril keeping the swab near the septum floor of the nose while gently pushing the swab into the post-nasopharynx. • As a visual reference, the swab should be inserted about half the distance from the patient’s nostril and the ear. • Remove the cap from the tube and insert the swab into the transport container all the way to the bottom of the tube • Holding the tube away from your face, grasp the swab shaft above the pre-molded breakpoint and break the swab shaft at the breakpoint • Screw the cap on tightly to prevent leakage • Label and send specimen to testing lab following your SOP’s FLOQSwabs™ immediately release sample into liquid media. Since there is no inner core to trap sample, recovery is dramatically improved over traditional fiber wound swabs. The unique ergonomic and anatomic design improves patient comfort and specimen collection. To learn more about innovative flocked swabs and UTM viral transport media and purchase through Copan’s valued distribution partners visit: http://www.copanusa.com/products/coll... CONNECT with us! Facebook: facebook.com/copan.usa Twitter: @CopanUSA Instagram: copan_usa LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/332026/