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Skin/Superficial Wound Culture

eD-H Order Code

LAB3162

Specimen Collection Information

Specimen Minimum Test Volume Container Special Handling
Cath Site 0.5 ML  

Swab(s)

0.5 ML  
Wound Sup 0.5 ML  

Specimen Transport Temperature

Refrigerated or ambient (Eswab only)

Specimen Stability

Eswab: 48 hours, refrigerated or ambient

Red top swab (least desirable): 24 hours refrigerated

Additional Specimen Instructions

Gram stain is included with this order. Cultures are held a minimum of 48 hours.

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.

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.

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Sunday; continuously

CPT(s)

87070

Performing Lab Section

Microbiology