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Test Code CSFC Culture, Spinal Fluid

Performing Laboratory

Chilton Hospital Laboratory-Microbiology

Methodology

Culture

Includes a Gram stain.

Identification and susceptibility will be performed, if appropriate, at an additional charge.

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Spinal fluid
Container/Tube: Screw-capped, sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Label vial(s) with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of draw, and in order of draw 1, 2, 3, etc.
2. Maintain sterility and forward promptly.

3. Do not send in pneumatic tube system. Hand deliver to a technician.

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient

Reference Values

No growth-72 hours

Critical value (automatic call-back): positive smear

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Turnaround Time:

Routine-3 days