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Test Code LAB943 Culture, Eye (Superficial) Aerobic

Additional Codes

44026

Reporting Title

Eye Aerobic Culture (Superficial)

Methodology

Includes Gram stain, aerobic identification, and susceptibilities when appropriate.

Performing Laboratory

OhioHealth Laboratory Services-RMH Microbiology

Specimen Requirements

Collect specimen from the affected area using a BD ESwabTM as follows:
1. Take swab for culture before application of topical anesthetics because topical anesthetics possess  

    antimicrobial activity.

2. Cleanse skin around eye with mild antiseptic.

3. Gently remove makeup and ointment with sterile cotton and saline.

4.Collect the specimen using the swab provided in the BD ESwab Collection and Transport System. Pass swab    2 times over lower conjunctiva.  Avoid eyelid border and lashes (culture these separately in a similar fashion, if indicated). Be sure not to touch below the red breakpoint line to avoid contamination.

5. Aseptically unscrew and remove the cap from the tube.

6. Insert the swab into the tube and bend the swab shaft at the breakpoint indicated by the red line marked on   the swab shaft against the tube to break the shaft. Discard the broken handle part of the swab shaft.

7. Replace the cap on the tube and secure it tightly.

8. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), MR# or DOB, date and actual time of collection and type of specimen.

9. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only.
Note:  Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

            ESwab is acceptable up to 48 hours after collection

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient/Refrigerate NO/Frozen NO

Reference Values

No growth after 48 hours

Critical value:  All positives

Alert catagory: Called within 1 hour

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87070 - aerobic culture

87205 - Gram stain

87077 - definitive identification, each (if appropriate)

87147 - serotyping, each (if appropriate)

87181 - E-test, each (if appropriate)

87185 - enzyme detection, each (if appropriate)

87186 - susceptibility, minimum inhibitory concentration, each (if appropriate)