Test Code IV CX Culture, Catheter Tip
Test Order Code
LAB224
Methodology
Presumptive and definitive identification of microorganisms by Gram stain and colony morphology growth on selective media and biochemical panels.>Includes susceptibilities as needed at an additional charge.
Performing Laboratory
Sky Lakes Medical Center-Microbiology
Specimen Requirements
Specimen must arrive within 2 hours of collection.
Specimen Type: Catheter tip
Container/Tube: Sterile container containing no liquid or fluid
Specimen Volume: 2-inch distal segment
Collection Instructions:
1. Specimen source is required.
2. Disinfect skin around catheter with iodine before removing catheter.
3. Using aseptic technique, cut off catheter tip being sure to include area of catheter directly below skin.
4. Label container with patient’s name (first and last), medical record number or date of birth, specimen source, and date and time of collection.
5. Rejection criteria include any catheter parts that have been in contact with skin, catheter tubing, unsterile container,catheter tip submitted in fluid/water/saline, ordelayed transport of >2 hours. Foley catheter tip is not acceptable.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient 2 hours
Reference Values
No growth or normal skin flora in amounts <15 colony forming units.>A susceptibility test will automatically be set up on isolates found in amounts of >15 colony forming units.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
87070