Why is this important?

Different types of bacteria can cause pneumonia. A blood culture is a test that lets the health care provider know which bacteria may have caused your pneumonia, and which antibiotic should be prescribed. It is best to do the blood culture within 24 hours of arrival at the hospital and before antibiotics are started. It is also important to start antibiotics as soon as possible. A blood culture lets your health care provider know how to best treat you and if any precautions are necessary to prevent the spread of your illness.

Higher percentages are better

Information about Pneumonia

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. As the lungs fill with fluid, oxygen has more and more trouble reaching your blood and a whole series of events may occur that can eventually kill.

Pneumonia is caused by a viral or bacterial infection that fills your lungs with mucus. This lowers the oxygen level in your blood. Symptoms of pneumonia can include the following:

• Difficulty breathing
• "Wet" cough. Your mucus may look green or bloody.
• Chest pain
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue