Biochemistry
Haematology and Transfusion
Clinical Microbiology (Including Virology)
Cellular Pathology
General Information
Immunology
Molecular Pathology
Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
SerumVancomycin
Specimen Volume
Minimum of 0.2 mLs bloodSpecimen Transport
Sample must be sent to the laboratory as soon as possibleTurnaround Time
Within 24hours of sample receipt.Sample Processing In Laboratory
Samples are processed by Biochemistry 24/7Sample Stability
If transport is delayed, sample must be refrigerated for up to 24 hoursGeneral Information
Gentamicin, vancomycin, amikacin & tobramycin assays are available routinely. Other antibiotics may occasionally require monitoring – this should be discussed with the Clinical Microbiologist.
This test is performed by Clinical Biochemistry.
A GREEN request form must be completed to avoid delays in testing
The results for these assays are available on the Browser immediately after testing. Results are usually available within 24 hours of receipt.
Clinical advice is available via extension 16516 or 16537 during normal working hours or via switchboard at other times.
Information on antibiotic treatment (all the prescribed antibiotics, dosing regimens and sampling times) and the age of the patient must be supplied on the request form; otherwise interpretation of results will be difficult.
Full information on the appropriate monitoring of antibiotics can be found on the UHB Trust website, (link below). Alternatively, a guide is available through the Help menu in PICS.
http://uhbpolicies/assets/AntimicrobialPrescribingGuidelines.pdf
For users outside the UHB Trust please refer to your local guidelines.
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.