Safety and Infection ControlQuestion 373 of 2368
Which technique should the nurse use when collecting an oropharyngeal swab?
- Rub the swab over the tonsillar areas and avoid the tongue, teeth, and gums
- Swab the tongue first to moisten the swab before sampling
- Press the swab firmly against the teeth to collect secretions
- Touch the gums with the swab to confirm correct placement
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Correct answer: Rub the swab over the tonsillar areas and avoid the tongue, teeth, and gums
The swab is rubbed over both tonsillar pillars and the posterior oropharynx, avoiding the tongue, teeth, and gums.
Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Specimen Collection: CHECKLIST FOR OROPHARYNGEAL TESTING. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Safety and Infection Control"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026