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Methicillin-Resistant *Staphylococcus aureus* (MRSA) Blood Culture Screening

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

This test checks for the presence of *Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus*, a type of bacteria that can cause infections in the blood. It helps determine if you may have an MRSA infection requiring targeted treatment.

Quick summary

["This screening helps guide antibiotic choices if you have symptoms of infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52969-3
Short code
MRSA Nose Ql Cult
Synonyms
MRSA Nose 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
organism-specific-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

What This Test Measures

A blood sample is collected to detect specific bacteria (*Staphylococcus aureus*) that have developed resistance to certain antibiotics, including methicillin. This is done through a culture process where bacteria are grown in a controlled environment to identify their presence.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, redness, or swelling that could indicate an infection, especially if you’ve been exposed to MRSA or have a history of infections requiring antibiotics.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may experience slight discomfort from the needle used to draw blood, but it typically resolves quickly. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know.

What to Expect During the Test

A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes. You may feel a brief pinch, but the area will numb quickly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

MRSA Blood Culture Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results can take several days to a week or more, depending on the laboratory and whether the bacteria grow in the culture. You’ll be notified once results are available, often through your healthcare provider.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means MRSA was found in your blood sample. This requires further evaluation by your doctor to determine the best course of treatment, which may include specific antibiotics designed to target MRSA.
Can I take antibiotics before the test?
No, it’s important not to take antibiotics before the test unless instructed by your doctor. Antibiotics can affect the accuracy of the culture results by killing the bacteria you’re testing for.
  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