Search
Go Back

Nasal MRSA testing issue

May 17, 2026

See next steps if invalid result



By: Dawn Dirks, Molecular Senior Specialist; and Andrew Judd, MD, Laboratory Medical Director

Due to a manufacturer issue, MRSA/SA (Nasal) by NAA (LAB7081) testing is experiencing an invalid result rate exceeding 12% that is generally not resolved by recollection. Currently, there is no known resolution date for the manufacturer issue.

When an invalid result is produced on one swab, the molecular test will be cancelled, not charged to the patient, and the ordering provider will be contacted to request a Nasal MRSA Culture, Surveillance (LAB7056) using the second swab.

What this means for you

If an invalid result occurs, you will be contacted to place a new culture order. Expect results within 24 to 48 hours rather than the standard NAA turnaround.

Summary of changes

Order details Order MRSA/SA (Nasal) by NAA (LAB7081) as normal.
Invalid result details If one nasal swab produces an invalid result, the test will be cancelled, not charged to the patient, and the ordering provider will be contacted to place a Nasal MRSA Culture, Surveillance (LAB7056) order.
Nasal MRSA culture surveillance turnaround time Approximately 24 to 48 hours from time of order placement.

Questions?

Email Laboratory Medical Director Andrew Judd, MD or Lab Quality Assurance Administrator Amanda Jacobson.