Skin/Superficial Wound Culture
eDH Procedure Code(s)
LAB3162
Test Information
Gram stain is included with this order.
Superficial wounds are often swabbed to collect a sample for culture because there is not enough pus of fluid to aspirate. Limit swab samplings to wounds that are clinically infected or those that are chronic and not healing.
Collection Information
Gently roll a swab over the surface of the wound approximately five times, focusing on the area where there is evidence of pus or inflamed tissue.
Specimen Information
| Specimen Type | Specimen Source | Acceptable Containers | Minimum Test Volume (mL) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swab | Varies | E-Swb-R | 1.0 | |
Shipping and Handling
Transport Temperature: Ambient or Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
Ambient: 48 hours
Refrigerate: 48 hours
Frozen: n/a
Test Components
| Component | LOINC Code |
|---|---|
| BKR SKIN/SUPERFICIAL WOUND CULTURE | 17915-0 |
| GRAM STAIN | 664-3 |
Turnaround Time (TAT)
2 Days
CPT Code(s)
87070
Performing Lab Section
Microbiology
Performing Lab(s)
Cheshire Medical Center Laboratory (CHE)
Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center Laboratory (MHMH)