Yes. The RN may perform a CLIA-waived COVID-19 test based on the nursing process without an order or standing order from an authorized health care practitioner if the CLIA-waived test is done for screening purposes and not diagnostic purposes. For screening tests, the RN must document whether a test result is positive or negative but may not diagnose the patient with COVID-19 or any other condition. Employers/facilities may have policies requiring an order for these tests and other requirements, such as completion of competency assessment, and quality control testing. The employer/facility must have a CLIA-waived certification:
Medical Test Sites (MTS) | Washington State Department of Health
Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) | FDA
The employer/facility should follow established guidelines specific to the facility type:
Point of Care Testing Guidelines (wa.gov)
The employer/facility must follow quality control measures as required with the CLIA-waived certification and/or as required by accreditation organizations (e.g., Joint Commission):
Other Resources:
Waived Testing- Screening or Definitive | Laboratory | Waived Testing WT | The Joint Commission
Screening Versus Diagnostic Tests for COVID-19, What’s the Difference? (asm.org)
RN Authority with COVID-19 CLIA-Waived Tests in School Settings | WABON
Testing in Schools Frequently Asked Questions | Washington State Department of Health
Guidance for SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Testing Performed in Point-of-Care Settings | CDC