Test Name: CULTURE: METHICILLIN RESISTANT STAPHLOCOCCI AUREUS (MRSA) SCREEN
Test Code: 2137096
Alias: LAB234
CPT Code(s): 87081  
Test Includes: Detection of MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staph aureus)
Preferred Specimen: Any site, most commonly nasal
Container:

E-Swab collection device (white cap tube with regular size swab)

Note: the blue cap E-swab may be used for pediatric patients (smaller swab size).
Alternate Container:

BBL culture swab (Liquid Amies)

or

BBL double culture swab (Liquid Stuart's)
Collection Instructions: Specimen should be submitted on culture swab.  Post collection, immediately insert swab into culturette tube, making sure the tip of the swab comes in contact with the moist sponge.  Indicate  the source of specimen. 
Transport Temperature:

Room temperature

Stability:

Room temperature: 24 hours
Refrigerated: 48 hours
Rejection Criteria:

Culture swab in UTM or viral transport media
Additional Information:

Susceptibility testing will not be performed with this test. If desired, please order an Aerobic Culture (2137770) instead.

Additional CPT codes/charges may apply.
Schedule: Culture plates are examined daily for at least 2 days.
Method: Bacterial culture
Clinical Significance: MRSA (Methicillin resistant Staphlococci aureus) is a major cause of nosocomial infections and is highly resistant to treatment. Most transmissions occur through the contaminated hands of a person carrying S. aureus. While S. aureus causes infections with clinical manifestations ranging from pustules to sepsis and death, it is commonly found in the nose or on the skin of healthy individuals (asymptomatic carriers). Because this test is often ordered during pre-admission testing, both Methicillin Susceptible Staph Aureus (MSSA) and Methicilliln Resistant Staph Aureus (MRSA), will be reported if present.
Reference Ranges: Negative

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The CPT codes included in this publication are in accordance with Current Procedural Terminology, a publication of the American Medical Association. CPT codes are provided here for the convenience of our clients; however, correct coding often varies from one carrier to another, and HealthLab may bill specific carriers using codes other than those shown. Clients who bill for services should verify the code(s) with the applicable payor to confirm that their use is appropriate in each case.
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