MRSA Culture Carrier Swab Test

Ordering the MRSA Culture Carrier Test

The MRSA Culture Screen helps detect methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria that can cause infections and is resistant to certain antibiotics.

Since anyone can be a MRSA carrier, this test is often used before surgeries, during hospital admissions, or when someone has been in close contact with others who have MRSA. Interestingly, MRSA can live in the nose without causing symptoms, which is what makes you a MRSA carrier.

Ordering this test can help you know if you are carrying MRSA, which can help prevent spreading it to others or developing an infection yourself. When you order the MRSA Culture Screen, you can expect these specific benefits:

• Identifies MRSA carriers before symptoms appear
• Helps guide doctors in choosing the right antibiotics if needed
• Reduces the risk of spreading MRSA in group settings
• Supports infection control in hospitals and clinics
• Provides peace of mind for people with frequent healthcare visits

Who Should Consider a Staph Bacteria Screening

People who spend time in group living spaces, such as dorms or long-term care facilities, may want to know if they carry MRSA, especially if someone nearby has had an infection. For example, a person who volunteers at a community shelter may want to check for MRSA to help protect others and themselves.

Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:

• Before starting a new job in a hospital or clinic
• After close contact with someone diagnosed with MRSA
• Prior to certain surgeries or medical procedures
• For people with repeated skin infections that do not heal easily
• When participating in contact sports where skin-to-skin contact is common, as MRSA can spread in athletic settings

Screening for MRSA can help lower the chance of passing the bacteria to others and allows for early steps to prevent infection. Delaying this test could mean missing the chance to stop MRSA from spreading or causing a more serious infection, especially in places where people are close together.

Take the next step to check your MRSA status by ordering your screening today.

Preparing for a Nasal Swab Bacteria Test

No special preparation is needed before an MRSA carrier test. The swab can be used in the nose and/or on the skin. If you want to test both, a quantity of 2 must be chosen before adding to the cart. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as helpful as possible.

Labs Included When Ordering Your MRSA Culture Screen

Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.

MRSA Culture Test FAQ

Do positive results mean that I’m a MRSA carrier?

Most likely. If you are not currently infected and without symptoms, then a positive result may indicate that you are a MRSA carrier. However, the bacteria may not be colonizing the place you test. The most common areas are the nose, throat, and skin in warm, moist areas like the armpits and groin. It is recommended that multiple quantities be ordered in order to test multiple areas.

Is there MRSA Culture Screen testing near me?

You can find nearby locations for MRSA Culture Screen using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options. This is helpful if you need a quick and easy way to get tested, especially when sample collection needs to be done in a clean, accessible setting.

What is the cost of the test?

The price for the MRSA Culture Screen includes all fees, such as sample collection at patient service center locations. Ordering this test is worth it if you want to know your MRSA status before a hospital stay or surgery.

How often should I retest?

Retesting is usually recommended if you have ongoing exposure to healthcare settings or after treatment for MRSA. Regular screening helps make sure you are not carrying the bacteria, especially if you are around people who are more likely to get infections.

How accurate is the test?

The MRSA Culture Screen uses a bacterial culture method, which is highly specific for detecting MRSA in nasal swabs. Sensitivity is about 95% and specificity is about 98%. All tests at TrueHealthLabs.com are performed by CLIA-certified labs, meeting strict quality and precision standards.

Important Notes

• This test is not available in NY, NJ, MA, and RI.