Laboratory Bulletin
Date:
To:
From:
Re:
December 12, 2017
South Zone Physicians and Nursing Units
AHS Laboratory Services
Change to Microbiology Report Format
PLEASE POST OR DISTRIBUTE AS WIDELY AS APPROPRIATE
Key Message:
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
The format of microbiology reports is changing for those with more than one organism reported.
Each organism with susceptibility results will have these reported separately, along with the
applicable susceptibility comments. Currently, the antibiotics for all the organisms are listed
together and all the applicable comments in aggregate below. It can be unclear as to which
organism the comments actually belong.
Why this is important:
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
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The new format will ensure that all comments added to the report in Meditech are included in the
report.
The report will be a bit longer. Make sure to read through the report completely.
The report will have better flow and provide clearer results to aid in delivering better patient care.
This will standardize the reporting format across South Zone.
Action Required:

See attached examples of current and new report formats.
Effective Date:

December 18, 2017
Inquiries and feedback may be directed to:

Michele Claypool, Tech III Microbiology, Medicine Hat Regional Hospital Laboratory
Michele.Claypool@ahs.ca or 403-502-8648 ext. 1202
This bulletin has been reviewed and approved by:
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
Dr. Julio Silva, SZ Clinical Department Head (Co-Lead)/Facility Chief-Laboratory Services MHRH
Tamara Trotter, South Zone Laboratory Director
www.albertahealthservices.ca
www.provlab.ab.ca
Change to Microbiology Report Format - 2
Current Report Format:
Change to Microbiology Report Format - 3
New Report Format: