Dr. Winokur's research findings supported the accuracy in organism identification in positive blood cultures between a first and second central venous catheter (CVC) line blood specimen draw. ​Her study compared blood culture findings between first 5 mL blood drawn from a CVC and second 5 mL draws to assess agreement between samples collected in pediatric oncology patients seen in a busy emergency department.

The findings support the accuracy of the first 5 mL blood specimen drawn. Because the first specimen is normally discarded, Winokur's group addressed the need for replication studies related to accuracy in organism identification and to demonstrate whether the first blood specimen collection should be reconsidered for use in blood culture testing rather than be discarded. This research supports the need for additional studies related to CVC blood specimen collection policies that guide nursing practice.