Blood Culture Collection

The following preparation and procedure is specific to blood culture collection:

Preparation

• • 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

1. Select the site.
2. Cleanse site with 70-95% alcohol prep pad.
3. Start in the center at the site of puncture and cleanse in concentric circles working outward.
4. Allow to air dry.
5. 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.