nielunäytteen

Nielunäyte, often referred to as a throat swab, is a medical procedure used to collect a sample of secretions from the back of the throat. This sample is then typically sent to a laboratory for analysis to detect the presence of various pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses, that may be causing an infection. Common reasons for performing a throat swab include diagnosing conditions like strep throat, influenza, or COVID-19.

The procedure itself is generally quick and minimally invasive. A healthcare professional will use a sterile cotton swab to gently rub the surface of the tonsils and the back of the throat. This action collects cells and other materials present in the area. The swab is then placed into a sterile container for transport to the laboratory. At the lab, various tests, such as bacterial cultures or molecular diagnostic tests, are performed on the sample. The results help physicians determine the specific cause of a patient's symptoms and guide appropriate treatment decisions. Proper technique is important to ensure an accurate and reliable sample collection.