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Test Code BLDCUL Culture, Blood

Methodology

Culture by BactecTM FX Continuous Read Fluorescent Instrument
Includes isolation and identification of both aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms. Susceptibility testing will be performed on aerobic microorganisms isolated.

Performing Laboratory

St. Clair Hospital Laboratory

Specimen Requirements

1. Sterilize area with chlorhexadine.

2. 10 ml each of blood drawn into one aerobic and one anaerobic Bactec bottle.
3. Obtain 2 sets of blood cultures, 1 each from 2 different sites. Towo sets are needed to increase recovery and to help determine if potential contaminants recovered represent true infection. If subacute bacterial endocarditis is suspected, 3 sets of blood cultures should be ordered.

4. Draw at 15 minute intervals.
5. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature.
Note:  1. Indicate suspected subacute bacterial endocarditis on request form.
2. At no time should more than 3 sets of blood cultures be drawn in a 24-hour period.
 

Reference Values

Negative (no growth after 5 days)

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday