What it means
A very sensitive test. It first copies RNA into DNA (reverse transcription), then makes millions of copies of a target piece (PCR) so it can be detected. It is used to diagnose RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), influenza and HIV, usually from a nasal swab or blood.
For the nurse
Collect the swab as the agency directs (often deep in the nose), label it at the bedside, and wear the PPE the suspected infection requires.
At a glance
| Also written | reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, reverse transcriptase PCR |
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Related terms
infectious disease
An illness caused by a germ such as a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite.
influenza
An infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by influenza viruses; the flu.