Name of the Procedure:

Culture, Bacterial; Quantitative, Aerobic with Isolation and Presumptive Identification of Isolates (any source except urine, blood, or stool)

Summary

A bacterial culture test that involves collecting a sample from a body site other than urine, blood, or stool to check for aerobic bacterial infections. This includes counting the bacteria present and identifying the types.

Purpose

This procedure is used to diagnose infections caused by aerobic bacteria. The goals are to identify the amount and type of bacteria present to guide appropriate treatment.

Indications

• Signs of infection such as swelling, redness, or discharge at a wound or surgical site
• Persistent fever with no clear source
• Unexplained pain, particularly at an implanted device site
• Symptoms of respiratory, skin, or other localized infections

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments usually required
• Patient should avoid using antibiotics before sample collection unless prescribed by a healthcare provider
• The affected area may be cleaned before sample collection

Procedure Description

1. A sample is collected using a sterile swab, needle, or other appropriate methods depending on the site of infection.
2. The sample is sent to a laboratory where it is incubated in a controlled environment that supports the growth of aerobic bacteria.
3. After incubation, bacterial colonies are counted (quantitative analysis).
4. Initial identification of bacteria is performed to determine the types present.

Tools and equipment: Sterile swabs, needles, culture media, incubator, and lab equipment.

Anesthesia or sedation: Not typically required.

Duration

The sample collection takes a few minutes. Laboratory analysis usually takes 24-48 hours for initial results, but full identification may take several days.

Setting

The procedure is performed in various settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, or diagnostic laboratories.

Personnel

• Medical or nursing staff perform the sample collection
• Laboratory technicians and microbiologists carry out the culture and identification process

Risks and Complications

• Minor discomfort or pain at the sample collection site
• Minimal risk of infection from the sample collection procedure
• Rarely, incorrect sample handling can lead to inaccurate results

Benefits

• Accurate identification of bacterial infection allows for targeted antibiotic treatment
• Helps in diagnosing and managing persistent or unclear infections

Recovery

• No significant recovery time needed post-collection
• Follow-up may include discussing results with the healthcare provider and starting or adjusting antibiotic treatment

Alternatives

• Empirical antibiotic therapy based on clinical symptoms
• Other types of cultures like anaerobic or fungal, depending on suspected pathogen
• Molecular methods such as PCR for more specific identification

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel mild discomfort or a slight prick, but these sensations are brief. Post-procedure, the patient can typically resume normal activities immediately. Pain management is generally not required.