Biochemistry
Haematology and Transfusion
Clinical Microbiology (Including Virology)
Cellular Pathology
General Information
Immunology
Molecular Pathology
Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
Sputum BAL Nose and Throat SwabSARS-CoV-2 Urgent and routine testing
Specimen Volume
Swab in 3mL Viral transport media. Minimum volume of 300uL for sputum/BAL.Specimen Transport
Sample should be sent to the laboratory as soon as possibleTurnaround Time
Within 24 Hours (routine) and 1hr15 (urgent) from receipt in laboratorySample Stability
If transport is delayed, sample can be refrigerated for up to 8 hoursGeneral Information
Please Note: For urgent testing, please send nose or nose/throat swabs in VTM, sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage. Other sample types can be utilised as a contingency if there are no other options available (for example dry swabs), however it must be noted that such sample types are not validated on this platform and therefore the results are not UKAS accredited.
Routine Covid-19 testing along with Influenza A, Influenza B and RSV is currently carried out utilising a platform which is not currently UKAS accredited. Please send nose/throat swab samples in green top VTM tubes. Other sample types are not validated.
If you are unsure or require advice; contact the laboratory using extension number 16534 during normal working hours or via switchboard at other times.
Results: are communicated electronically to Bed Management Teams and Infection Control.
Information Sharing: If your sample needs to be referred or a notifiable disease is detected from your sample, your details and sample may be shared with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This is a legal requirement. The UKHSA is sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care.
Specifications
- EQA Status: Enrolled to UK NEQAS
- EQAS Scheme: Yes