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:
When patients are being treated with antibiotics such as this, it is important that levels are monitored to ensure that they are not so high that they are toxic or so low that they are ineffectual
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted blood.
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml
Minimum volume adult:
5ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
N/A
Quality assurance:
Sample referred to Reference Laboratory.
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference Ranges:
Expected levels (mg/L)
- Skin & soft tissue infection: Pre 15-30 but <60
- Bone & joint infection: Pre 20-40 but <60
- Infective endocarditis: pre 30-40 but <60
- OPAT on 25 mg/kg 3x per week: Pre 20-30
Re-assay interval 6-8 days
Factors Affecting Result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C
Referenced Documents:
Other info:
Sample referred to Antimicrobial Reference Laboratory, Bristol