Specimen type

D. Pleural fluid

Optimal time of specimen collection

Before antimicrobial therapy where possible

Correct specimen type and method of collection

Specialist collection according to local protocols into a sterile leakproof container. Collect at minimum of 1ml

Laboratory analysis

Examined for acute pathogens. Legionella culture and AFB on request

Transport

Specimens should be transported and processed as soon as possible.
The volume of specimen influences the transport time that is acceptable. Large volumes of purulent material maintain the viability of anaerobes for longer. If processing is delayed:-

a)refrigerate the sample and
b)inoculate the pleural fluid into Blood Culture bottles (very carefully to avoid contamination and risk of sharps injury).

Delays of over 48 hours are undesirable.

	Specimen type	D. Pleural fluid
	Optimal time of specimen collection	Before antimicrobial therapy where possible
	Correct specimen type and method of collection	Specialist collection according to local protocols into a sterile leakproof container. Collect at minimum of 1ml
	Laboratory analysis	Examined for acute pathogens. Legionella culture and AFB on request
	Transport	Specimens should be transported and processed as soon as possible. The volume of specimen influences the transport time that is acceptable. Large volumes of purulent material maintain the viability of anaerobes for longer. If processing is delayed:- a)refrigerate the sample and b)inoculate the pleural fluid into Blood Culture bottles (very carefully to avoid contamination and risk of sharps injury). Delays of over 48 hours are undesirable.