Biochemistry
Haematology and Transfusion
Clinical Microbiology (Including Virology)
Cellular Pathology
General Information
Immunology
Molecular Pathology
Preferred Sample Type
Fluid/Joint Aspirates Received in Blood Culture Bottles
Specimen Transport
Samples must be sent to the laboratory as soon as possibleTurnaround Time
Negative cultures are reported after 2 days and 5 days incubation. Any positive samples will be notified via the duty Microbiologist.Sample Stability
Culture bottles should be stored at ambient room temperature and should never be refrigeratedGeneral Information
The blood culture system outlined in the "Blood Cultures" article may also be used for the incubation of other sterile fluids, including ascites, peritoneal dialysis fluid, pleural fluid, synovial fluid and joint aspirates. Samples are incubated as detailed above.
Results will be communicated to the requesting clinician via the Clinical Microbiologist.
Please Note: It is not possible to perform cell counts or direct Gram’s stain on these samples. Please send an additional universal container and/or EDTA tube if these analyses are required.
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 scheme
- EQAS Scheme: Yes