LABORATORY EVALUATION METHODS IN SURGICAL MICROBIOLOGY

Summary There are several techniques that should be used to maximize the results you obtain from your laboratory. Reducing the number of contaminating organisms in samples submitted for microbiological evaluation is essential. Ideally there should be no contaminants and collection techniques should be directed toward this ideal. Laboratory requests should include a short clinical description of the specimen which enables the laboratory to give better service. Finally, the gram stain is a very useful tool especially when used in conjunction with good culture techniques. It can be used in the initial evaluation of the patient and in subsequent evaluations as well.