Gram Stain

Message

Direct exam of properly collected specimen by Gram's method of staining
NOTE: Gram stain is included with most routine culture orders and need not be ordered separately.
Exceptions: Urine and stool gram stain not performed automatically, must be ordered separately.

Test Code

GRAM

Preferred Specimen

Any site or fluid
Send fluids in sterile, securely capped container
For swabs, collect sample in eSwab or double-swab culture swabs to allow for adequate material

Instructions

Please describe exact source, such as:
Sputum, expectorated
Peritoneal fluid
Wound, left leg
Tissue, lung left lower lobe

Specimen Stability

For Fluid: Send to the Lab within 30 minutes of collection For Swabs: Send to the Lab within 2 hours of collection DO NOT refrigerate specimens. DO NOT place specimens on ice.

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Unacceptable specimens:
Catheter tips
Any specimen that is dried out or has inadequate material available

Clinical Significance

The Gram stain is generally the first step performed in the identification of bacteria and often determines the subsequent identification procedures.

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.