T092. Cost-effective, Clinically-relevant Work Up of Wound Specimens
Date: October 13, 2010
Speaker: Susan Sharp

Summary of Session: Wound cultures are frequently contaminated with resident flora and it is often not easy to determine which organisms are potential pathogens. Thus the work up of these specimens can be problematic resulting in time and resources being spent to work up cultures that may be of little clinical value. In addition working up and reporting results from these mixed cultures may generate clinically misleading results leading to inappropriate and unnecessary antimicrobial therapy. This session will address the issues related to these cultures. The session will include a review of practical examples of the work-up schemes presented. This program will provide attendees with methods to use when developing protocols for work up of wound specimens in their laboratories.

Objectives: Upon completion of this Teleconference, participants should be able to:

• Review the significance of cellular types seen in wound specimens.
• Identify 3 methods for the evaluation and work up of bacteriology wound cultures.
• Review literature associated with evaluation methods.
• Design cost-effective, clinically-relevant strategies for laboratory work up of wound specimens in their institutions.

Intended Audience:  Division C: Medical technologists/technicians, laboratory assistants, clinical microbiologists, microbiology directors/managers.

CME Disclosures: The Presenter has nothing to disclose.

Termination of CME Credit: This program will not be eligible for CME credit after October 13, 2011