Test Information:
The Gram stain is a general stain used extensively in microbiology for the preliminary differentiation of microbiological organisms. It is one of the simplest, least expensive, and most useful of the rapid methods used to identify and classify bacteria.
Specimen Container:
- Sterile Container or Plain or Amies swab
- Dried smear (for genito-urinary samples)
- SPS Glass Tube or Sodium heparin (for blood samples)
Specimen Type:
- Lower respiratory samples (ex. ETA and TA)
- Urine
- Aspirates and discharges
- Tissues or mass
- Sterile body fluids
- Other body fluids
- Blood
Required Volume:
Urine: 10 to 60 mL
Other samples: 3 to 5mL
Blood: depends on tube used
Patient Preparation:
No Patient Preparation
Notes:
- Air dried smears are good for only 24 hours from the time of collection.
- Made at bedside or immediately after collection is preferred or one made in laboratory from swab or clinical material.
- Stool is not accepted.
- Please indicate Time and Date of Collection
Storage & Stability
(Before Processing)
- For blood, smeared slide and specimen in sterile swab:
Storage: 18 to 24˚C
Stability: 24 hours from the time of collection - For other specimen type:
Storage: 2 to 8˚C
Stability: 24 hours from the time of collection
Transport Temperature:
For blood, smeared slide and specimen in transport swab: Room (18-24°C)
For other sample in sterile container: Ref (2 to 8°C)
Test Category:
Routine
Test Schedule:
Daily (Cut-off: 2100H)
Results Availability:
- Within 6 hours if received before cut-off.
- Specimen received beyond cut-off; 12-24 hours