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Test Code LAB231 Environmental Culture

Performing Lab

Arnot Ogden Medical Center

Ordering Recommendations

Semi-quantitative detection and identification of bacterial agents of line/catheter infections.

Collect

Catheter Tip

*Identify on specimen what type of catheter/line is being submitted.

Collection Device

Sterile Container

Stability (from collection to initiation)

Specimens should be transported to the lab ASAP. Transport delays should be avoided to prevent drying.

Storage/Transport Temperature

Room Temperature

Methodology

Conventional Culture

Start Date

9/13/2017

Last Review Date

TBD

Specimen Handling

Room Temperature

Unacceptable Conditions

Foley Catheter Tips: growth represents distal urethral flora.

Collection Instructions

  1. Before removal of the catheter, cleanse the skin around the insertion site with 70% alcohol to reduce contaminating skin flora and remove any residual antimicrobial ointment.
  2. Aseptically remove the catheter and clip a section of the distal portion directly into a sterile container.
  3. A segment of the proximal catheter tip may also be clipped and submitted in a separate container with a separate order if desired.  Indicate on specimen container distal or proximal.

Remarks

  • Gram stain is not performed for this test.
  • Susceptibility testing will be performed for significant isolates.
  • Fastidious organisms may not be detected by this method.