How To Swab a Throat for Testing | Merck Manual Professional Version

In pharyngitis (tonsillopharyngitis), testing of throat swabs may be done to identify infection with group A beta-hemolytic streptococci or N. gonorrhea. Learn more: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professi...

Step-by-Step Description of Swabbing a Throat

1. Explain the procedure to the patient, including that they may gag briefly.

2. Wear gloves and eye protection, and if COVID-19 (or any other airborne infection) is under consideration, gown, N95 respirator, and face shield.

3. Position the patient and light source to illuminate the posterior oropharynx.

4. Have the patient open the mouth and relax the tongue by saying "aaaah."

5. Press the tongue down using a tongue depressor.

6. Gently rub the swab against both tonsils and the posterior pharynx.

7. Place the swab in the culture medium, transport medium, or sterile test tube.

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