Immunoglobulin and serum protein electrophoresis requesting is changing on 8 July 2026. Clinicians can now request immunoglobulins only or immunoglobulins and electrophoresis. This change will enable doctors to more effectively request the tests that are clinically indicated and streamline laboratory testing, delivering improved turnaround times for these tests. This change will apply to Epsom & St Helier Hospitals and their associated GPs initially, and will then be rolled out to all service users in south west London.
Urine Culture
| Category | Bacteriology Medical Microbiology |
|---|---|
| Turnaround time | TAT 1-2 days for culture, microscopy available same day |
Collection conditions
Urine - specimens should be transported and processed within 4 hours if possible. If transportation is delayed refrigeration is essential for non-boric acid urines.
Additional information
Sample stability – 1 week. Specimens that are not processed will be retained in the laboratory for up to 48 hours after the report is issued.
Nitrofurantoin sensitivity testing is based on EUCAST guidance and is only applicable to E. coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Group B streptococci and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. We test nitrofurantoin against other organisms but suggest you use these results as a guide only and if sensitive but clinical response is poor, switch to an alternative antibiotic.
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