LOINCActiveBoth

LOINC Code 648-6: Microscopic observation Gram stain Nom (Sput)

648-6 is a LOINC code used to identify Microscopic observation Gram stain Nom (Sput) in laboratory and clinical observation data. You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges. LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Observation. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Sputum.

Reviewed by HealthAssure Clinical TeamUpdated 21 May 2026

What is this code?

LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Observation. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Sputum.

When is it used?

  • Used in lab systems, EHRs, and clinical data exchange.
  • May identify a test, observation, survey item, or clinical document request rather than a diagnosis.
  • Status: ACTIVE
  • Order vs observation: Both
  • Method: Gram stain

What it does not mean

  • The code identifies the observation or test, not the actual result.

Key facts

  • Microscopic observation [Identifier] in Sputum by Gram stain
  • Observation
  • Gram Stn; ID; Identity or presence; Infectious Disease; InfectiousDisease; Lower respiratory; Lung; Microbiology; Nominal; Point in time; Pulmonary; Pulmonology; Random; Respiratory; Spt; Sputum; St; Stains; Stn

Where you may see this code

You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges.

Common synonyms

Microscopic observation Gram stain Nom (Sput)Microscopic observation [Identifier] in Sputum by Gram stainGram Stn SptObservationMICROMicroscopic observation, SputumPrid

Frequently asked questions

Code details

Code648-6
SystemLOINC
Display nameMicroscopic observation Gram stain Nom (Sput)
DescriptionObservation
Short nameGram Stn Spt
ComponentObservation
PropertyPrid
TimingPt
System (specimen)Sputum
ScaleNom
MethodGram stain
ClassMICRO
StatusACTIVE
Order/ObservationBoth

Flags

BillableNo
Valid clinical useNo

Source

SourceLOINC
Version2.82
Releasemain
First released1.0
Last changed2.78

Consumer names

Microscopic observation, Sputum

Part names

ObservationPridPtSputumNomGram stainPresence or IdentityPoint in time (spot)

About this content

This page is prepared by HealthAssure's clinical team using official coding standards from LOINC. AI tools assist with drafting explanations, which are then reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Meet our team.

LOINC Code 648-6 | HealthAssure