Acceptable specimen:1-5 mL fluid.Submit fluid in sterile container or heparin tube - not optimal, but acceptable if there is a risk of clotting.
If 3 mL fluid or less, submit specimen in sterile container.If >3 mL fluid, specimen may be submitted in an aerobic blood culture bottle.
Fluids and aspirates are best obtained with a needle and syringe.
DO NOT submit specimen in syringe, with or without needle attached.
Transport ASAP (priority) unless requested STAT. DO NOT refrigerate. Store specimen at room temperature.
DO NOT submit swabs of fluids.
Indicate Candida/Yeast on requisition if required.
If clinically indicated, specimen source also suitable for anaerobic culture.
Turnaround time for negative culture: 4 days.
For additional information, see CSF and Body Fluid Collection Guidelines.
