Anaerobic Culture, includes aerobic culture - Synovial Fluid

Acceptable specimen: 1-5 mL fluid.
Submit in anaerobic transport media (PRAS) or sterile container.

Refer to CLS Form #M16005:
Collection of Specimens for Anaerobes - Guidelines for Physicians

Transport ASAP (priority) unless requested STAT.
Store specimen at room temperature.
DO NOT refrigerate.

Fluids are best obtained using a needle and syringe.
DO NOT submit specimen in syringe, with or without needle attached.

Cultured for anaerobes on request only.

Do NOT submit swabs of fluids.

Turnaround time for negative culture: 4 days.

For additional information, see CSF and Body Fluid Collection Guidelines.