This information has been updated as of February 19, 2021. Please see NP Swabbing Authorization for current information.
Dental assistants are being recruited and redeployed to help conduct COVID-19 testing. They may do so as follows:
Allowed After Training
Of the types of swabs used for COVID-19 testing, dental assistants may perform:
- nasal swab
- throat swab
They must complete appropriate training before performing nasal and/or throat swabs.
Not Allowed
Nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs are also used for COVID-19 testing. Dental assistants may not perform NP swabs.*
The various swabs collect samples from different depths. The NP swabbing procedure collects samples from much deeper than the nasal and throat swabs. This deeper swabbing involves a restricted activity.
*We are working with Alberta Health to temporarily allow dental assistants to perform NP swabs. We will provide more information as it becomes available.