Fever, Infection & STD

All Blood specimens should be obtained prior to initiating antibiotic therapy. If this is not possible, blood should be drawn immediately before administrating the next dose. In order to detect septicemia with sufficient accuracy, it may be necessary to set up one to three blood cultures at designated time intervals, depending on the clinical situation. It is recommended that specimens be obtained at the first sign of fever. To avoid possible false positive, the puncture site must be cleaned thoroughly and disinfected. Collect 2-3mL in BACTEC aerobic bottle. If BACTEC aerobic bottle is not available, collect in 2 Sodium Heparin. If a delay in transport occurs, incubate at 37°C or leave the fluid at ambient temperature for transport. Bactec peds Plus bottle can be use for pediatric patients.