Sterile Samples

Sterile Samples (e.g. CSF, abscess pus, synovial fluid, tissue biopsies)

Specimen types you should send:

• Sterile body fluid samples (see list below) obtained for microbiological culture
• Samples should be collected from sterile sites using aseptic techniques.
• Please indicate if tuberculosis is a possible diagnosis when collecting samples from sterile sites. Samples and request forms should be labeled with Danger of Infection stickers.
• White cell counts other than on CSF samples should be sent on a separate request to Haematology department.
• If samples require urgent processing please contact the Microbiology Department

How to Collect the Sample

• For taking lumbar puncture samples please refer to lumber puncture standard operating procedure
• Disinfect the skin site thoroughly prior to puncture or incision.
• If necessary use sterile gloves and sterile drapes around the incision or puncture site.
• Aspirate the body fluid into a syringe and decant the fluid into the sterile container.
• Screw the lid back on the container and make sure that it does not leak.

List of samples that fall under above sampling recommendations

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
• Abscess aspirates (from various anatomical locations)
• Pleural fluid
• Ascites 
• Bone biopsy
• Tissue biopsy (from sterile anatomical sites e.g. brain, liver, spleen, lymph nodes)
• Bone marrow aspirate
• Synovial biopsy
• Synovial fluid samples - joint fluid aspirates (use same containers for synovial fluid crystal detection - please note that samples for crystal detection should reach the lab as soon as possible).

Transport

• Transport the sample to the laboratory as quickly as possible.
• Note: The recovery of anaerobes is compromised if transport time exceeds 3 hours.
• Do not refrigerate the sample