Oropharyngeal swab
If it is impossible to perform the nasopharyngeal swab (for unfavorable anatomical nasal conditions or because it is not tolerated by the patient), the oropharyngeal swab can be performed as a second choice. The patient is asked to lower the mask by exposing the mouth and to fully open it. The swab is inserted into the oral cavity until it reaches the level of the oropharynx. The sampling is carried out on the uvula, the palatine tonsils and/or the posterior wall of the oropharynx. The contact with the tongue and other areas of the oral cavity should be carefully avoided.