| Test Name: | Clostridium Difficile (C. Diff) by PCR |
| Epic Order Code: | LAB5556 | | |
| CPT Code: | 87493 | | |
| Specimen(s) Type: | Stool | | |
| Acceptable Container(s): |  Sterile container |
| Testing Schedule: | Test performed daily |
| Turn Around Time: | STAT: NA | | |
| | Routine: 2 hours | | |
| Collection Information: | See specific specimen type in Serology/Virology Collection Information by Source. Only liquid or soft (formed to the shape of the container) samples will be accepted. |
| Transport Information: | Deliver to laboratory immediately. All samples must be signed into the laboratory. |
| Reference Clients: | If unable to deliver to the lab immediately, store and transport the specimen at 2-8° C. Specimen must be received in lab within 5 days. |
| Causes for Rejection: | Improperly labeled, incorrect container, contaminated, insufficient quantity, incorrect/delay in transport, formed stool, a mixture of stool and urine, rectal swabs, colonoscope fluid, and specimens from children under the age of two. |
| Reference Range: | Negative for C. Difficile |
| Additional Information: | Due to PCR high sensitivity and specificity there is no need for testing of multiple specimens. Only one specimen per 7-day period will be accepted. |
| Add C. Diff specimens submitted 3 days after admission of inpatients will be reviewed by the C. Diff Review Team/Infection Prevention for compliance. |