Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
Charcoal SwabSwabs for General bacteriology culture (M, C & S)
Sample Preparation
Turnaround Time
Varies dependent on testSample Processing In Laboratory
Charcoal swabs are not suitable for virology investigations.Sample Stability
Genital swab sites must be kept at room temperature. If transport is delayed, samples can be stored at ambient for up to 48 hours. All other swabs specimen sites can be refrigerated if trasnport is delayed, for up to 48 hours .General Information
Suitable Specimen Types:
Wound swabs, (superficial and deep pus swabs), Skin swabs, Burn swabs, Ear swabs, Eye swabs, Throat swabs, Mouth swabs, Nose swabs, Vascular catheter tips. Penile swabs, High Vaginal swabs, Endocervical swabs, Vulval swabs
The laboratory will perform culture for bacteria, yeast, and molds on a range of clinical specimens for pathogenic micro-organisms.
The sample site must be clearly stated on the sample and the request form.
Where appropriate; microscopic investigations will be performed,on eye swabs for Gram’s stain.
Microscopy for Bacterial vagnosis will be performed on vaginal swabs between the ages of 12 to 55 and on request.
Please note microscopy for Trichomonas vaginalis is no longer performed please send an an Aptima swab for T.vaginalis NAAT testing.
Significant isolates will be identified using a combination of mass spectrometry, (Maldi-TOF) and biochemical tests as required.
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is carried out in accordance with EUCAST guidelines. Organisms with unusual identity and/or susceptibility patterns may require confirmation by specialist referral centres.
Notes
Relevant clinical details including relevant travel history must be included on the request form to ensure that the correct micro-organisms are being investigated
If investigations for TB are required this must be clearly indicated.
If dermatophytes suspected please send skin scrappings in a Derapak
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