Patterns of use of microbiological laboratories

Summary This study identified the major users of microbiological laboratory services by specimen type, by origin of the request (General Practice, public health or hospital) and by speciality within hospitals. It also examined the information exchanged between clinicians and laboratory workers on request and report forms. The quality of information on request forms raised serious doubts as to its value. Data on antibiotic treatment were particularly deficient. Variations in laboratory reporting practices were demonstrated which may cause confusion or difficulties in interpretation, particularly for junior doctors. The value of reports for epidemiological purposes is limited also by variations in clinical and laboratory practice. The need for more explicit clinical criteria for requesting laboratory examination of specimens and for standard practices in reporting by different laboratories is discussed.