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
  

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