Laboratory information (Microbiology)

Opening hours

On-call service

The Microbiology on-call / out-of-hours service is for emergency cases only where results are likely to influence patient management. It currently only covers the RSCH, RACH, SEH and PRH sites.

The table below details the specimen types that are performed on-call:

Any clinician who is requesting tests not routinely performed on-call or after 11pm must be referred to the on-call microbiology clinician. If the on-call microbiology medic deems that the specimen would impact on patient management they will then contact the BMS to arrange for the specimen to be processed.

For specimens originating from RSCH and RACH

After obtaining the specimen contact the Biomedical Scientist on call via switchboard at RSCH. The specimen must then be sent urgently to Pathology Reception.

For specimens originating from PRH

After obtaining the specimen contact the Biomedical Scientist on call via PRH switchboard. The switchboard will also need informing that there is an urgent specimen to send to RSCH.

The specimen must be transported in compliance with the Carriage of Dangerous Goods Regulations. Packaging is provided for this purpose. Failure to comply with these regulations could render the Trust liable to prosecution, so other types of packaging must not be used. The packaging consists of a fibreboard carton, containing a rigid screw capped plastic container, which contains a 3” x 5” absorbent pad to absorb any leakage, and packing material for cushioning.

Ensure the specimens are properly labelled and the request form fully completed. Wrap the specimen container(s) in the packing material and place in the plastic container, ensuring that there is sufficient cushioning between the specimen containers. Replace the lid and place the container in the fibreboard box. Close the box with the self lock tabs. Do not tape or seal the box as these are reusable items. Send the specimen urgently to switchboard who will arrange transportation to RSCH.

Please ensure that the specimen is correctly labelled and clearly marked URGENT as this can avoid a great deal of wasted time.

Enquiries related to processing of specimens (after the specimen has been obtained) should be directed to the Microbiology Biomedical Scientist on call.

Out of hours/ on-call HIV testing

The on-call/out of hours HIV testing service performed in the Virology/Microbiology laboratory using point-of-care testing is only done in the following scenario only:

• Women who arrive in labour with no prior known HIV status.

The request for the above also needs to be discussed and agreed with the on-call Microbiology/ Infectious Disease consultant.

Please note that, apart from the above scenario, the laboratory WILL NOT test for HIV on-call/out of hours.

Contact numbers

Clinical advice

A Clinical Microbiologist is available to give advice on microbiological diagnoses and interpretation of results, antimicrobial chemotherapy and infection control issues on a 24 hour basis.

QVH consultant cover

A consultant microbiologist is available at QVH on Mondays on ext. 64361. For the rest of the week please contact Microbiology at RSCH on 01273 664619. Alternatively, you can contact the microbiology specialist registrar at RSCH as listed above.

Antibiotic susceptibility

Changes to antibiotic susceptibility reporting from Microbiology RSCH, UHSussex NHS Trust:

Reporting of antibiotic susceptibility is changing in line with EUCAST recommendations. Antibiotics will be reported as I as well as the more familiar S and R. The definitions of these are listed below:

Agents reported as I should not be avoided; they are appropriate treatment options when given at the correct dose. 

For further information please refer to UHSussex antimicrobial guidelines published on MicroGuide Adult Antimicrobial Guide (all sites) (microguide.global)