Test Code C ET Culture, Endotracheal Secretion
Performing Laboratory
CCHS-Christiana Care Health ServicesMethodology
CultureIncludes Gram stain.
Reference Values
No growth or oral floraPhysician Office Specimen Requirements
Specimen must be delivered to laboratory within 1 hour of collection.
Container/Tube: Screw-capped, sterile container
Specimen: ≥1 mL of endotracheal secretion
Collection Instructions: Suction endotracheal secretions from endotracheal tube and place in a screw-capped, sterile container. 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 SundayRoutine Turnaround Time
Gram stain: <8 hours
Preliminary: 24 hours
Final: 48 hours
STAT Turnaround Time
Gram stain: ≤1 hour