Group A Strep Culture (To be Discontinued November 4, 2024)

Overview

  • EPIC Code:
  • LAB236
  • Soft Test Code:
  • CXGRA
Alternate Names
  • Strep A

Specimen Collection & Preparation

Test Notes:

Order Throat Culture, if looking for pathogens other than Strep A.

Required Forms & Information:

Current antibiotic therapy, collection site and/or source all must be written on the test requisition

Specimen Overview

Source Examples for this test are:  Tonsillar and Pharynx

Specimen Requirements:

-OR-

ESwab - Liquid Amies Fluid
Specimen Information:


Collection Instructions:

  1. Use a sterile eSwab collection kit.
  2. A kit contains one swab. Check expiration date before use. Only touch swab above pink line.
  3. Ask the patient to tilt their head back. Depress tongue with tongue blade. 
  4. Check for inflamed areas. With the swab against the back wall of the throat, move up and down into the uvula area. 
  5. Touch any white patches in the tonsillar area. Do not touch the tongue, cheeks, or teeth with the swab to avoid contamination with oral bacteria.                                                       
  6. Place swab into tube and break off at pink line. 
  7. Cap tube tightly. 


Transport and Storage:
  • Ambient: 24 Hours

    Preferred

  • Refrigerated: 48 Hours

Clinical Interpretation

Reference Range:

No Group A Strep isolated


Methodology:
  • Manual

Production Schedule

Sites Performed
  • Parkview Regional Medical Center
Days Performed
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Departments
  • Microbiology
Turn Around Time

2 days


Coding & Compliance

CDM

01412740


CPT Coding

87081