Abstract :
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test is a routine method, used worldwide for diagnosis of Covid-19 disease. Insufficient knowledge of nasopharyngeal anatomy and improper procedure by the healthcare professionals involved in collecting the specimens can result in patient discomfort and a high rate of false negatives. Thus, knowledge and skill necessary to perform the test should be a part of curriculum of health care professionals who will be involved in collecting such specimens. Present study was conducted in Gulf Medical University (GMU). Volunteers were invited from final year students of biomedical sciences. Students took a pre -test on nasopharyngeal anatomy and knowledge relevant to nasopharyngeal swab collection before the course. Students then underwent a short course which included nasopharyngeal anatomy and proper technique of nasopharyngeal swab collection. After the course, students took the post- test and were assessed for the ability to perform the nasopharyngeal swab collection. There was significant increase in the numbers of students identifying the correct method of inserting the nasal swab, locating the nasopharynx, identifying conditions like nasal polyp and deviated nasal septum and ideal nare to insert the swab in abnormal or asymmetrical nasal conditions. Implementation of training programs on knowledge specific to nasal anatomy and clinical aspects of nasal cavity, hands on practice of proper technique of nasopharyngeal swab collection in the curriculum specially for graduating students improves the quality of trained professionals who will perform nasopharyngeal swab collection as a part of their routine lab work.
