Blood Culture/Sensitivity

Also known as: Blood culture, bacterial, fungal and/or AFB
Formal name: Culture, blood
Related tests: CBC, Urine Culture, Bacterial Wound Culture, Gram Stain, CSF Analysis, Fungal Tests, Susceptibility Testing

Why should I do it?
To check for the presence of a systemic infection; to detect and identify microorganisms in the blood

When should I do it?
When you have signs or symptoms of sepsis, such as fever of unknown origin, chills, fatigue, and an elevated white blood cell count

What Kind of Sample is Needed?
Two or more blood samples drawn at timed intervals or from separate venipuncture sites, typically from different veins in your arms

Test Preparation Needed?
None