Blood Culture Collection
The following preparation and procedure is specific to blood culture collection:
Preparation
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- Specimens that are to be used for blood cultures must be collected from a sterile environment
- Volume of blood collected for blood culture is critical. Most adult bottles require between 8-10ml for optimal growth (neonate bottles require less). Please be aware of what the recommended amount is for current system being used.
- If a syringe is used, a new needle must be attached before transfer of the sample into the blood culture bottle.
- If a butterfly set-up is used, the aerobic sample must be drawn first in order to clear the air from the butterfly tubing before the anaerobic culture is drawn.
- Top of blood culture bottles need to be cleansed with alcohol before use.
- Cleaning the venipuncture site is the most important part of the blood collection procedure.
- If other tests are ordered, the blood cultures must be drawn first
Procedure
- Select the site.
- Cleanse site with 70-95% alcohol prep pad.
- Start in the center at the site of puncture and cleanse in concentric circles working outward.
- Allow to air dry.
- Repeat the same technique using 2% iodine swab or applicator. If patient is allergic to iodine, can use other cleansing agent such as surgical green soap.
Perform routine venipuncture to collect.