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Test Code C BAL Culture, Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL)

Performing Laboratory

CCHS-Christiana Care Health Services

Methodology

Culture

Includes Gram stain.

Reference Values

No growth or oral flora

Physician Office Specimen Requirements

Specimen must be delivered to laboratory within 1 hour of collection.

 

Container/Tube:  Screw-capped, sterile container

Specimen:  ≥1 mL of bronchoalveolar lavage

Collection Instructions:  Maintain sterility and forward promptly.

Note:  Label container with patient’s full name and 1 additional unique patient identifier such as date of birth, medical record number, emergency ID number, date and time of collection, collector’s initials, and type of specimen.

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Routine Turnaround Time

Gram stain:  <8 hours

Preliminary:  24 hours

Final:  48 hours

STAT Turnaround Time

Gram stain:  ≤1 hour