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This is a variation on the common osmotically controlled Ringers solution, where glass beads have been added to enhance macerations in the preparation of suspensions of samples and for use as a diluent in dilution techniques for bacterial enumeration. The solution may also be used in the sampling of food production apparatus by the rinse and swab method. -
For in vitro diagnostic use. BM0379 Saline (0.85%) with Beads (Clean Area Pack) is a variation on isotonic saline which is suitable for use as a general-purpose diluent in many areas of the laboratory. The addition of glass beads will allow dense material to be broken down and aid the isolation of any bacteria that may be present in “clumps”. BM0379 Saline (0.85%) with Beads (Clean Area Pack) is tested as a diluent in accordance with the principals of ISO 11133:2014 (1) and can also be used to isolate for identification tests or processing clinical specimens for microbiological examination (2 3). Saline (0.85%) with Beads (Clean Area Pack) maintains the osmotic balance of the medium thereby maintaining cell morphology and integrity of bacteria. The solution does not interfere with any biochemical reactions. This product is aseptically dispensed before being double wrapped and treated with Ethylene Oxide (EO) for use in clean areas.- International Organization for Standardization (2014) 11133:2014 Microbiology of food, animal feed and water – Preparation, production, storage and performance testing of culture media. Geneva, ISO.
- Public Health England. (2015). Investigation of bone and soft tissue associated with osteomyelitis. UK Standards for Microbiology Investigations. B 42 Issue 2.
- Public Health England. (2021). Investigation of orthopaedic implant associated infections. UK Standards for Microbiology Investigations. B 44 Issue 2.1.
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Sodium Hydroxide (4%) with Phenol Red is a reagent used in the digestion and decontamination of sputum samples prior to culture for mycobacteria. Most clinical specimens submitted for acid-fast bacilli isolation are contaminated with more quickly developing commensal microbial flora. Additionally, acid-fast bacilli may be retained in respiratory secretions and not released for culture until the material is liquefied. Respiratory specimens, such as sputum, contain mucin which may trap microorganisms. Decontamination and digestion of the mucous components kills contaminating normal flora and allows slower growing mycobacteria to grow. Timely neutralization prevents potential loss of mycobacteria caused by high pH levels of decontaminants, resulting in the preservation of more viable organisms. Phenol red is used to indicate changes in pH. BM1320 is recommended by the UK Standards for Microbiology Investigations as part of their decontamination/digestion protocol; it is generally used in conjunction with Sputum Neutralising Buffer without Phenol Red (BM1324).
