Any specimen for culture is preferably sent to the laboratory
immediately and processed as soon as possible. If transport is unduly
delayed, the number of pathogens recovered may be inversely proportional to
the time between collection and inoculation of the specimen. Conversely,
overgrowth by nonpathogens may be directly proportional to this delay.
Delayed specimens will be rejected at the discretion of the laboratory.
Microbiology
Transportation Time Limits
Test results of delayed specimens may be erroneous; therefore,
specimens delayed in transport may be rejected if the laboratory staff believes
results would be compromised.
|
