The PN needs to obtain a specimen for a rapid strep test. Which area of the mouth should be swabbed?
- The roof of the mouth and the insides of the cheeks.
- The top surface of the tongue and under the tongue.
- The posterior pharynx and the tonsillar pillars. (correct answer)
- The uvula and the soft palate only.
Explanation: To obtain an accurate sample for a rapid strep test or throat culture, the swab must touch the areas where the Streptococcus bacteria are most likely to be present. This includes the posterior pharynx and the tonsillar area on both sides. Care should be taken to avoid touching the tongue, cheeks, or uvula, as this can contaminate the specimen with oral flora.