Gram Stain
How to prepare
You can eat and drink normally before the test.
No special preparation needed.
Tell our phlebotomist about any medicines you take. Don't stop them without asking your doctor.
Wear a loose sleeve so the sample can be taken easily from your arm.
How it works
About this test
Gram stain is a quick microscope test that colours bacteria purple (Gram-positive) or pink (Gram-negative) and shows their shape. It gives an early clue to the type of infection before culture results.
Why is this test done?
- Get a quick idea of the germ type
- Guide early antibiotic choice
- Check samples like pus, fluid or discharge
Symptoms — when should you get tested?
- Pus or discharge
- Fever with infection
- Infected fluid
Normal range
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, methods, age and sex. Always discuss your report with your doctor.
If your result is high
Seeing bacteria with pus cells suggests infection; the type and shape help guide treatment.
Common reasons- Gram-positive cocci (Staph, Strep)
- Gram-negative bacilli (E. coli, Klebsiella)
- Gonococci in discharge
How is the test done?
- 1Book online
Choose your slot for home collection or a visit to our centre.
- 2Blood sample taken
A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm with a sealed, single-use needle. It takes about 2 minutes.
- 3Tested in our lab
Your barcoded sample is tested on automated machines with strict quality checks.
- 4Report on WhatsApp
A pathologist checks the result and the report reaches you on WhatsApp and email.
Frequently asked questions
No fasting is needed for this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Your report is usually ready in same day after the sample reaches our lab. We send it on WhatsApp and email, and you can also download it from the Reports page.
Please call our team to confirm whether home sample collection is available for your location and test.
This test needs a blood sample. No special preparation needed.