2 Blood Culture Collection Free Online FlashCards

What do blood cultures detect?

Blood cultures detect microorganisms circulating in the bloodstream.

What can happen if too little blood is collected?

Too little blood can reduce the chance of detecting an infection.

When should cultures be collected relative to antimicrobial therapy?

When possible, collect blood cultures before antimicrobial therapy begins.

How many identifiers should be used to identify the patient?

Confirm the patient’s identity using at least two identifiers.

How should the prepared venipuncture site be protected?

Apply the approved skin antiseptic with the required friction and contact time, then let it dry completely. Do not touch the prepared site.

How should a blood-culture bottle septum be prepared?

Disinfect each rubber septum with 70% isopropyl alcohol and allow it to dry before inoculation; do not touch it afterward.

What is the usual adult blood-culture volume per set?

For adults, a usual target is 20–30 mL per set, commonly divided between aerobic and anaerobic bottles. Follow the bottle fill marks and facility protocol.

How should blood-culture volume be determined for children?

Use the age-, weight-, and bottle-specific protocol rather than adult volumes.

With direct butterfly collection, which bottle is usually inoculated first?

Usually inoculate the aerobic bottle first, then the anaerobic bottle. Air in the tubing can enter the first bottle.

With syringe transfer, which bottle is often inoculated first?

Many procedures inoculate the anaerobic bottle first, then the aerobic bottle, to limit air introduced into the anaerobic bottle.

When other blood specimens are drawn at the same time, what should be collected first?

Collect blood cultures first to reduce the risk of contamination from additives in other tubes.

How should inoculated blood-culture bottles be mixed?

Gently mix each inoculated bottle as directed by its manufacturer; avoid vigorous shaking.