All culture samples (except stool culture) must be collected aseptically in the correct sterile containers provided by the laboratory. Please refer to sample types of the test listing for the specific instructions indicated.
After collection, all specimens must be transported to the laboratory as soon as possible. Contact Specimen Collection hotline of Parkway Laboratory Services for the pick-up services. All specimens submitted to the laboratory must be properly identified by 2 unique patient identifiers. Please print patient’s name and one other identifier on each sample container. The acceptable identifiers are patient’s name and one of the following:
Complete the request form with patient’s particulars, relevant clinical history and indicate the test to be ordered as well as the source of specimen obtained clearly to facilitate the ordering and testing processes at the laboratory. Culture specimens should be obtained prior to the administration of antibiotics. Otherwise, indicate the antibiotic administered/to be administered on the request form when culture is requested. Collection containers must be closed tightly to prevent sample leakage during transportation to the laboratory. Do not use EXPIRED collection containers or transport media for specimen collection. Contact Client Services of Parkway Laboratory Services for the exchange and/or replacement of containers and tubes one month before the expiry date. Catheter tip cultures, other than central line catheters, do not provide useful results and will be rejected. Collection of Specimen for Mycobacterial testing For patients with clinical and X-ray findings compatible with tuberculosis, it is recommended to collect three sputum specimens for acid-fast smears, PCR and culture. These samples should be collected at 8 to 24 hour intervals, and one of the three specimen preferably should be first morning specimen.