Testing & Collection Resources

Provincial Zone

Edmonton Zone

Microbiology

Microbiology tests that can be requested as stat:

  • Cerebral spinal fluid culture (CSF)
  • Gram stain
  • Vitreous eye culture

When ordering a stat microbiology test:

  1. Place a STAT sticker on the requisition next to the test requested stat.
  2. Ensure a contact telephone number is on the requisition.

When packaging a stat microbiology test:

  • Label specimen with STAT sticker.
  • Package in green biohazard bag.
  • Ensure requisition with contact telephone number is sent with the specimen.
  • Telephone specimen processing department at (780-451-3702 or toll free at 800-661-9876) and provide the following information:
    • Patient name
    • Stat microbiology test requested
    • Mode of transportation

Transportation of stat microbiology test:

  • Hospitals in the Edmonton zone, use regular courier if a pickup is scheduled within 30 minutes.
  • In Edmonton zone, use taxi if there is no courier pick up scheduled in the next 30 minutes.
  • Outside Edmonton zone, use expedited transportation that is available.

Reporting of results:

  • Preliminary results will be telephoned to the number provided on the requisition as soon as available.
  • Gram stain results are available within 1 hour of receipt at microbiology laboratory.

Turn Around Times (usual availability):

  • Routine cultures - preliminary results 1 day after receipt; antimicrobial susceptibility results 2 days after receipt; negative culture held for 2 - 10 days depending on specimen source
  • Anaerobic cultures - preliminary results 3 days after receipt; negative cultures held for 5 days
  • Fungal cultures - preliminary results 1 -2 days after receipt; negative cultures held for 4 weeks
  • Parasitology - ova and parasite examination within 2 days of receipt
  • Virology - dependent on reference laboratory
  • Mycobacteriology - dependent on reference laboratory

Calgary Zone

Microbiology

Anatomic Pathology

Pneumatic Tube Operation and Maintenance REG01-110

For all other zones, refer to:

Laboratory Test Directory & Collection Information