Test Code GRAM Gram Stain, Varies
Specimen Required
Sources: Closed/open abscess, lower respiratory, fluid, tissue, or swab
Supplies: Culturette (BBL Culture Swab) (T092)
Container/Tube: Sterile container or culture transport swab (Dacron or rayon swab with aluminum or plastic shaft with either Stuart or Amies liquid medium)
Specimen Volume: Entire collection
Acceptable:
Slides: Prepared microscope slide
Collection Container/Tube: Sterile container or culture transport swab
Submission Container/Tube: Slide container
Collection Instructions:
1. Apply original sample to surface of standard microscope slide using appropriate application method (determined by consistency of specimen type) to assure adequate transfer of specimen onto slide.
2. Allow specimen to dry and then heat-fix the slide.
3. Place in slide container for transport.
Useful For
Identifying microorganisms in normally sterile body fluids
Screening sputum specimens for acceptability for bacterial culture
Guiding initial antimicrobial therapy
Testing Algorithm
For more information see Infective Endocarditis: Diagnostic Testing for Identification of Microbiological Etiology.
Special Instructions
Method Name
Conventional Gram Stain Procedure
Reporting Name
Gram StainSpecimen Type
VariesSpecimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Varies | Refrigerated (preferred) | 24 hours |
Ambient | 24 hours |
Reject Due To
Blood, stool, vaginal/cervical secretions, throat, or nasal specimen | Reject |
Reference Values
No organisms seen or descriptive report of observations.
Performing Laboratory
MCHS- MankatoTest Classification
This test has been cleared, approved, or is exempt by the US Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
87205
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
GRAM | Gram Stain | 664-3 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
GRAM | Gram Stain | 664-3 |
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday