Infection control screen – detection of Extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Surveillance cultures for the detection of carriage, cross-transmission or environmental source of Enterobacterales organisms (Klebsiella spp, Escherichia coli and P. mirabilis) with acquired extended spectrum β-lactamase enzymes
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Bacteriology
Specimen Type	○ Rectal swab ○ Swab of suspected site of carriage/colonization ○ Environmental swab

Other Information

○ This test is available upon request and is for surveillance purposes only
○ Testing is only performed on specimens from pregnant patients, specimens originating from mothers and baby units or upon special request
○ Isolates screened will be tested for both ESBLs and carbapenemases.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Swab in Amies transport medium (eSwab)

Collection Requirements

○ Moisten a sterile swab and rotate in the rectum or other site of suspected infection or colonization. Place the swab in Amies transport medium for transport

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

In-house

Routine Turnaround Time

○ Up to 48h

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4539

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Transport specimen to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory at room temperature (20-25˚C). If a delay of more than 2h in transport is anticipated, keep swab at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C).