Nasal mid-turbinate (NMT) specimen collection is a standardized method for obtaining upper respiratory samples for diagnostic testing. Compared with deeper nasopharyngeal sampling, nasal mid-turbinate collection is less invasive while still providing reliable specimens when performed correctly. Proper technique and personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential to ensure sample quality, patient safety, and healthcare worker protection.
Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Before collecting an nasal mid-turbinate specimen, healthcare personnel must wear appropriate PPE to minimize exposure risk. Recommended PPE includes:
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Gloves
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Gown
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Eye protection (face shield or goggles)
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N-95 respirator or higher-level respirator
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Surgical mask if a respirator is not available
Gloves must be changed between each patient, and used PPE should be disposed of in a designated biohazard waste container.
Anatomical Reference for Nasal Mid-turbinate Sampling
The nasal mid-turbinate area is located inside the nasal cavity, posterior to the nostrils and above the nasal floor. Proper understanding of nasal anatomy helps ensure correct swab placement and prevents improper sampling that may reduce diagnostic accuracy or cause patient discomfort.
Step-by-Step Nasal Mid-turbinate Specimen Collection Procedure
Step 1: Patient Preparation
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Ask the patient to tilt their head back approximately 70 degrees.
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Use a flocked, tapered nasal swab.
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Some swabs include a stopper that indicates the correct insertion depth.
Step 2: Swab Insertion
Step 3: Specimen Collection
Step 4: Swab Handling and Transport
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Place the swab tip-first into the provided transport tube.
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Break the swab handle at the breakpoint or cut it with sterile scissors if needed.
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Ensure the swab fits comfortably in the tube and tightly secure the cap to prevent leakage or contamination.
Recommended Nasal Mid-Turbinate Collection Products by MEIDIKE GENE
To ensure accurate and reliable nasal mid-turbinate specimen collection, selecting high-quality collection devices and transport solutions is essential. MEIDIKE GENE offers a range of medical-grade specimen collection products designed to meet clinical and laboratory requirements.
MEIDIKE GENE® Nasal Mid-Turbinate Swabs
MEIDIKE GENE nasal mid-turbinate swabs are manufactured using premium materials to support efficient specimen uptake and release.
Key features:
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Nylon-fiber flocked tip for enhanced sample absorption
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Smooth, tapered design for proper mid-turbinate placement
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Optional depth stopper to help control insertion distance
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Flexible yet sturdy shaft to reduce patient discomfort
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Individually sterile-packed for clinical safety
These swabs are suitable for respiratory pathogen testing and comply with standardized nasal mid-turbinate specimen collection procedures.
Disposable Mid Turbinate Nasal Flocked Swab
MEIDIKE GENE® Viral Transport Tubes
After specimen collection, proper transport is critical for maintaining sample integrity. MEIDIKE GENE viral transport tubes are designed to securely store and preserve nasal mid-turbinate specimens during transportation to the laboratory.
Product advantages:
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Leak-proof screw-cap design
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Compatible with standard nasal mid-turbinate swab breakpoints
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Available with inactivated or non-inactivated transport media
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Clearly labeled tubes for easy identification and traceability
More infos can be found in https://www.medicoswab.com/products/transport-medium/virus-transport-medium/
MEIDIKE GENE® NMT Specimen Collection Kits
For streamlined clinical workflows, MEIDIKE GENE also provides complete nasal mid-turbinate specimen collection kits.
Kit options may include:
These all-in-one kits help reduce preparation time, minimize handling errors, and improve consistency in specimen collection.
For more information or to place an order, contact our customer service team at +86 0755-28997664 or info@medicoswab.com.
