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Growth of *Staphylococcus aureus* (Coagulase-Positive Staphylococcus) by Culture

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks whether your blood contains bacteria of the *Staphylococcus aureus* species, which can cause serious infections.

Quick summary

["A blood culture helps identify if you have a bacterial infection caused by *S. aureus*."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87242-4
Short code
G stearothermophilus Lab Device Ql Cult
Synonyms
G stearothermophilus Lab Device Ql Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
culture
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or signs of infection (e.g., redness, swelling, or pain) that could be due to a bacterial infection. It’s also used to diagnose infections in medical devices (like catheters) or after surgery.

What Does the Test Involve?

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is placed in special containers and sent to a lab where it’s grown in a controlled environment to detect *S. aureus* bacteria.

What Are Possible Results?

If *S. aureus* is found, it confirms the presence of this specific bacteria. If no growth is detected after several days, it suggests no active infection by this strain. Results may take 2–5 days or longer.

What Are the Risks?

The main risk is a minor reaction at the injection site, such as redness, swelling, or pain. Rarely, blood cultures can cause an allergic reaction or infection at the needle site.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: *S. aureus* is a common cause of infections like skin infections, pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and surgical site infections. Identifying it early helps guide treatment with antibiotics.

Short name

S. aureus Culture

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results typically take 2 to 5 days or longer, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you once they’re ready.
What if my blood culture grows *Staphylococcus aureus*?
If *S. aureus* is found, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics tailored to this specific bacteria. Follow their instructions carefully, as treatment may require several days or weeks.
Can I take antibiotics before my blood culture?
No, taking antibiotics before the test can affect results. Avoid them unless instructed by your doctor, as this may prevent the lab from detecting the bacteria properly.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy