Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Used to determine the presence of bacteria in the tip of catheter after removal from the body. Results of this test can be used in conjunction with blood cultures to determine the source of bacteria causing sepsis.
Specimen container paediatric:
Cut 4-5cm of the terminal segment aseptically and placed into a sterile Universal
Specimen container adult:
Cut 4-5cm of the terminal segment aseptically and place into a sterile Universal
Minimum volume paediatric:
4-5cm of the proximal end of the tip.
Minimum volume adult:
4-5cm of the proximal end of the tip.
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C. Please note that venflon and urinary catheter tips are not routinely cultured.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard.
Add on test:
N/A
Quality assurance:
N/A There is no specific scheme for Catheter Tip
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference ranges:
N/A
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI B 20)
Other info:
Only applicable to intravascular catheters. Turnaround time might be extended if fastidious organism is suspected.