Nasopharyngeal culture is a sample of secretions from the
uppermost part of the throat, behind the nose, to detect
organisms that can cause disease. Culture - nasopharyngeal; Swab
for respiratory viruses; Swab for Staph carriage How the test is
performed You will be asked to cough before the test begins and
then tilt your head back. A sterile cotton-tipped swab is gently
passed through the nostril and into the nasopharynx, the part of
the pharynx that covers the roof of the mouth. The swab is
quickly rotated and then removed. How to prepare for the test
There is no special preparation necessary. How the test will
feel You may experience slight discomfort and may gag. Why the
test is performed The test identifies viruses and bacteria that
cause upper respiratory tract symptoms. Nasopharyngeal cultures
are useful in identifying respiratory viruses, and specific
bacteria such as: The culture may be used to help determine
which antibiotic therapy is appropriate. The presence of
organisms commonly found in the nas