Sign in →

Test Code GRAM Gram Stain

Clinical Indications

Used for the detection bacteria and/or fungi from normally sterile sites

Gram stains on sputum specimens serve as a screening method to determine acceptability for culture.

Additional Test Codes

Epic Order Code: Gram Stain
Sunquest Order Code: GRAM
Px Order Code: LAB4039

Specimen Collection Type

Varies
CSF, lower respiratory specimens, tissue, bone, aspirates, normal sterile body fluid

Urine on neonates only

Minimum Collection Volume

Body fluid: 0.5 mL
Tissue: pea –sized piece
Respiratory specimen: 1.5 mL

Reference Range

No organisms seen

Critical Value

Varies by site
Positive direct Gram stain on CSF, synovial fluid, or bone is considered critical.

Interpretation

Neutrophils, red blood cells, and bacteria will be reported semi-quantitatively. Observational characteristics of bacteria will be reported.

Rejection Criteria

Blood and bone marrow
Throat, ear, eye, meatus swabs
Hardware
IV or Foley catheter tips
Female urogenital swabs
Stool
Charcoal Swabs

Specimen Availability for Add-on Testing

N/A

Specimen Stability

24 hours at room temperature
72 hours at 2-8°C

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Sunday

Performing Lab- Department

TUKHS-BH-Microbiology

CPT Code

87205

LOINC Code

664-3

Test Alias

N/A

Additional Information / Notes

N/A