Staphylococcus aureus Blood Culture Qualitative (Sensitivity Probe)
This test checks for the presence of *Staphylococcus aureus* bacteria in your blood using a specialized probe to enhance detection sensitivity.
["A positive result may indicate a serious blood infection requiring urgent medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88272-0
- Short code
- Staph sp tuf Bld Pos Ql Probe
- Synonyms
- Staph sp tuf Bld Pos Ql Probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained infections, especially if you’ve had recent surgery, a weakened immune system, or a device like a central line. It helps confirm whether *Staphylococcus aureus*—a common cause of bloodstream infections—is present.
How the Test Works
The probe enhances the test’s ability to detect even small amounts of *Staphylococcus aureus* bacteria in your blood. Unlike standard blood cultures, this method may identify infections sooner, allowing for quicker treatment.
Sample Collection
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed in a lab to detect bacterial presence using the specialized probe technique.
What to Expect After the Test
Results are typically ready within 24–48 hours. If positive, you’ll likely need antibiotics tailored to *Staphylococcus aureus*. Follow-up tests or treatments may be recommended based on your provider’s guidance.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result confirms *Staphylococcus aureus* blood infection, which can cause severe illness, organ damage, or even death if untreated. Early identification helps prevent complications and guides appropriate antibiotic therapy. A negative result means no detectable bacteria at the time of testing, but infections can still occur—further evaluation may be needed.
Short name
Staph Blood Culture Probe
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How soon will I get my results?
Can I take antibiotics before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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