We use cookies to provide you with a better service. Carry on browsing if you’re happy with this or read more about our cookie policy and privacy policy.

Dismiss

Changes to Cheltenham A&E in response to industrial action

Dismiss

Blood culture (septicaemia)

Microbiology

Notes

The information given here is intended for use by healthcare professionals. Please see Lab Tests Online-UK for more general advice, links and background.

  • Do not remove, cover or in any way deface the bottle barcodes
  • If using addressograph labels do not cover the bottle barcode
  • Samples should preferably be taken prior to administration of antibiotics
  • See also: Mycobacterium blood culture
Blood culture set: Adult and Paediatric

Sample requirements

BacT/ALERT blood culture bottles

Adult set
1 aerobic bottle (blue cap) + 1 anaerobic bottle (red cap)

Paediatric
1 paediatric bottle (yellow cap) only

Safety-Lok Blood Collection Set and BacT/ALERT Adaptor or direct draw adaptor and butterfly line or needle and syringe

Collection method

Refer to Trustwide Clinical Policy A0296 - Blood Culture Sampling for comprehensive instructions covering the following methods:

  • Recommended Procedure: Safety-Lok Blood Collection Set and BacT/ALERT Adaptor - Adults only
  • Recommended Procedure with a ‘Butterfly Needle’ and Syringe: Adults
  • Alternative Method Using Needle and Syringe: Adults
  • Blood Culture Sampling from a Newly Inserted Peripheral Cannula: Adults
  • Blood Culture Sampling From Central Venous Catheters: Adults
  • Recommended Procedure with a ‘Butterfly Needle’ and Syringe: Children and Babies
  • Blood Culture Sampling from a Newly Inserted Peripheral Cannula: Children and Babies
  • Blood Culture Sampling From Central Venous Catheters: Children and Babies

In general, inoculate at least two sets and three in cases of suspected infective endocarditis

It is recommended to collect 10 mL per bottle or 4 mL for a paediatric bottle. Although lower sample volumes can be used, organism recovery may be improved using a sample volume closer to the recommended volume. However, do not overfill bottles. Do not exceed 10 mL per bottle or 4 mL for a paediatric bottle.

Inoculate each set with a sample from a separate venepuncture

Required information

  • Relevant clinical details
  • Travel history
  • Current or recent antibiotic therapy
  • Site of sampling

Storage/transport

Store and transport samples at room temperature
Blood culture bottles may be sent in the air tube

Turnaround time

Negatives 5 days

Positive bottles are indicated in IPS immediately they are flagged as positive

Positive microscopy and culture results will be telephoned as soon as possible after they become available

Back to top