Guidelines
Guideline for the optimal use of blood cultures
Ntobeko Ntusi, Lindsey Aubin, Stephen Oliver, Andrew Whitelaw, Marc Mendelson
Abstract
The incidence of sepsis is increasing globally, with high morbidity and mortality. Prompt, accurate detection of bacteraemia and fungaemia is imperative for improving patient care, yet health care professionals lack training in correct blood culture techniques. These guidelines discuss the clinical importance of blood cultures, the indications for their use and the correct technique for optimal yield of pathogenic micro-organisms that cause sepsis.
Authors' affiliations
Ntobeko Ntusi, University of Cape Town
Lindsey Aubin, University of Cape Town
Stephen Oliver, University of Cape Town
Andrew Whitelaw, University of cape Town
Marc Mendelson, University of Cape Town
Keywords
Blood culture; Infection control; Sepsis
Cite this article
South African Medical Journal 2010;100(12):839-843.
Article History
Date submitted: 2010-04-25
Date published: 2010-12-01
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