Question
Is the registered nurse RN allowed to perform a point of care polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test without an order or standing order from an authorized health care practitioner?
Answer
No. An order or standing order from an authorized health care practitioner is required for the RN to perform a PCR COVID-19 test. A PCR test is considered the “gold standard” for COVID-19 tests as they are more likely to detect the virus than antigen tests. A PCR is regarded as a diagnostic test instead of a screening test.
Medical Test Sites (MTS) | Washington State Department of Health
Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) | FDA
COVID-19 RT-PCR Test - Healthcare Provider Fact Sheet (fda.gov)
FAQ Category
Nursing Delegation
Audience