GRAM STAIN

Synonyms:
Computer Code: (GMST)
Specimen Collection: Collect as for culture. Swabs yield poor results. Send tissue or fluid when possible. Gram stain is not performed on throat swabs, catheter tips, and hardware, bone, blood in culture bottles, and bone marrow.
Minimum Volume:
Handling Instructions for Offsite Areas: See specific culture listing.
Reference Values: Reference values are source dependent. Test must be specifically requested for all sources other than wound, respiratory, tissue and sterile fluids.
Lab Code: Microbiology
Requisition: MICRO
Test Frequency: Daily
Routine TAT: same day
Stat TAT: 60 min from receipt of specimen
CPT Code(s): 87205
LCD or NCD:
Methodology Used:
See Addendum XVII