Director: Brenda Katz, MD

Technical Advisor: Joe Masloski, MLS (ASCP)^CM

 

            

            ^{Kiestra automated specimen processor/plater                                      Mycobacterium tuberculosis acid fast smear}

Specimen requirements

In order to provide accurate, timely results, specimens for microbiology must be collected properly and transported promptly. Appropriate transport media, as well as transport conditions, can be found in our electronic Test Catalog.

Supplies can be ordered using our Supply Catalog. If you need assistance with your order, contact Client Services at (612) 863-4678.

 

Labeling of microbiology specimens:

On the specimen label, you must include:

• First and last name of the patient
• patient date of birth
• date and time of collection
• specimen source (throat, vaginal, etc.)

On the requisistion indicate:

• Specimen source (urine - void*, sputum, right leg wound, etc.)
  • * Specify void, cath, or foley cath on urine cultures, as culturing procedures differ based on method of collection.
• Date and time of collection
• Test requested

 

Susceptibility testing:

Susceptibility testing is performed automatically on isolates considered by the laboratory to be significant. Isolates are held for 7 days after the culture is finalized, for possible further identification or susceptibility testing.

Organism groupings of routinely tested Antimicrobials at Allina Health Laboratory

2024 Allina Health Antimicrobial Costs

Susceptibility data

If additional susceptibility testing is desired, complete and submit a Microbiology Susceptibilities Add-on or Organism Identification Request form, available via the link below, or contact our Client Services department at (612) 863-4678. Testing of an antimicrobial not on the routine panels may also be requested.

Microbiology susceptibilities or organism ID add-on

 

Reference guides

Microbiology ESwab collection & transport guide

Ova and Parasite stool testing algorithm