Aspirate / Fluid (Microbiology)
Aspirate
Fluid
Drain
Knee
Pleural
Synovial
Aseptically aspirated fluid
Aseptically aspirated fluid into a sterile container. Anticoagulant may be inhibitory to some organisms and is not recommended for culture.
Collection of a separate aliquot with anticoagulant is advised for microscopy if a cell count is required. i.e. EDTA blood tube.
As above
Microbiology
Mon - Sun, 0800 - 2400
Microscopy 1 hr / Culture 5 days
Microscopy and culture. Sensitivities as required.
Notify laboratory if URGENT
Processing available urgently as call out via Clinician request 2400-0800 hrs
