Comparison of Nasopharyngeal Swab v. Nasopharyngeal Saline Wash or Saliva Collection in Testing for Respiratory Viruses

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA · May 8, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring different ways to collect samples for testing respiratory viruses, like the ones that cause colds or COVID-19. The current method involves using a long swab that can be uncomfortable and even painful for patients. Researchers are testing two new, less invasive methods: one that collects a wash from the back of the throat and another that gathers saliva using a special capsule. The goal is to see if these new methods are just as effective as the traditional swab but more comfortable for patients.

If you are 19 years or older and have come to the Emergency Department at Nebraska Medicine with a nasopharyngeal swab already ordered, you might be eligible to participate. In total, 1,000 participants will be asked to provide four types of samples: saliva (both by drooling and using the capsule), a wash from the throat, and a small blood sample from a finger prick. It’s important to know that you can choose not to provide any of these samples if you don’t want to. All samples collected will help researchers learn more about how to diagnose respiratory infections quickly and comfortably.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 19 years or older presenting to the UNMC ED, or admitted from the UNMC ED with a non-research nasopharyngeal swab ordered.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • None, if the inclusion criterion is met.

Trial Officials