Aspirates

Test Information

Test Name

Aspirates

Synonyms

Peritoneal fluid; Synovial fluid; Bursa fluid; Joint fluid; Pleural fluid; Ascitic/ Ascites fluid; Pericardial fluid

Department

Microbiology/Cytology

Preferred Specimen

Majority of fluid in a sterile pottle (If a cell count is required then a small portion in an EDTA tube is recommended)

Testing Location

PLBOP

Collection Information

Preparation

  • Aspirate specimens should arrive in the laboratory in sterile, properly sealed and labelled containers.
  • Syringe samples should arrive with the needle removed and syringe capped.

Processing Information

Registration Code

ASPR

Notes

  • Process ASAP
  • Check test required - Confirm with Microbiology/Cytology
  • Urgent aspirates are tested at each of the Micro STAT labs (Rotorua, Whakatane, Taupo)
  • Routine aspirates samples all send to PLBOP

Methodology

Sample Storage

Fridge