1.    Prior to collection, clean the needle puncture site with alcohol and disinfect using chlorhexidine (preferred) or povidone-iodine/alcohol solution

2.    Aseptically perform the aspiration.

3.    If collecting into blood culture bottles, clean the bottle septum with 70% isopropyl alcohol

Synovial fluid specimens:

1.       Inject 1-2 mL of specimen for culture into sterile or anaerobic transport containers for culture before adding to hematology/chemistry containers containing additives (EDTA, etc.).

2.       If sufficient specimen remains (1-3 mL), also inoculate into BacT Pediatric PF Plus blood culture vial

Other normally sterile body sites, add at least 1-3 mL of fluid for gram stain and direct planting in to one of the following:

·      Anaerobic transport system (PRAS or equivalent)

·      Sterile 10 mL tube

·      Sterile 60 mL plastic container (orange top)

·      If specimen clotting is likely to occur, use sterile tube containing SPS

·      If sufficient volume remains, inoculate specimen into blood culture bottles as follows:

Peritoneal dialysates: A peritoneal effluent bag may be submitted.

1.  Ensure bag is not leaking.

2.  Place dialysate bag into a large bag and then into a leak-proof container.

Drainage fluid:

1.    Aseptically collect a fresh sample of the fluid

2.    Place it into a sterile tube or container.

3.    Use anaerobic transport system if anaerobic culture is required.