Blood Culture for Sepsis
The blood culture is among the laboratory tests healthcare providers may use to investigate Sepsis. Learn what it measures, how to prepare, and what results can tell a provider. Educational content only - not a diagnosis.
Order a Blood Culture Test
Lab testing is available through our partner network. Order online and visit a local collection site. No doctor's order or insurance required.
- Sample type
- Blood
- Typical turnaround
- 2-5 business days
- Preparation
- Sterile collection by healthcare provider.
Why the blood culture may be ordered for Sepsis
Detects bacteria or fungi in the bloodstream.
When evaluating Sepsis, a healthcare provider may order the blood culture alongside other tests based on your symptoms, history, and physical exam. Test selection and result interpretation are clinical decisions made by a qualified professional.
Symptoms associated with Sepsis
Chills
A sudden sensation of feeling cold....
Confusion
Lack of clarity and coherence of thought, perception, understanding, or action....
Fever
Body temperature elevated above the normal range....
Hypotension
Low Blood Pressure, vascular hypotension....
Low Urine Output
Producing significantly less urine than normal, which can be a sign of dehydration or kidney problems....
Rapid Breathing
Breathing faster than normal, which can be a sign of fever, infection, anxiety, or respiratory conditions....
Rapid Heartbeat
A heart rate that is faster than normal, which can be caused by stress, fever, or heart rhythm conditions....
Reduced consciousness
Abnormally diminished level of attention, responsiveness, or wakefulness....
Other tests used to investigate Sepsis
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Crp Test C-Reactive Protein
This blood test measures levels of CRP to help indicate if cases of inflammation or infection are occurring. I...
High-Sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP)
Assesses low-level inflammation and cardiovascular risk....
Lactate
Measures lactic acid levels to assess tissue oxygenation and sepsis risk....
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)
Measures tissue damage from various conditions....
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the blood culture used to investigate Sepsis?
Yes - the blood culture is among the tests healthcare providers may consider when evaluating Sepsis. Detects bacteria or fungi in the bloodstream. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
How should I prepare for the blood culture?
Sterile collection by healthcare provider.
How long does the blood culture take?
Results for the blood culture are typically available within 2-5 business days depending on the laboratory.
Does this website interpret my blood culture result?
No. SymptomDatabase.com does not interpret laboratory results. Discuss all results with a qualified healthcare provider.