In light of these important func- tions, at least 3 sets of blood cultures obtained from separate venipuncture sites should be obtained, with the first and last samples drawn at least 1 hour apart. In addition, echocardiog- raphy should be performed expeditiously in patients suspected of having IE. Recommendations 1. At least 3 sets of blood cultures obtained from dif- ferent venipuncture sites should be obtained, with the first and last samples drawn at least 1 hour apart (Class I; Level of Evidence A). 2. Echocardiography should be performed expedi- tiously in patients suspected of having IE (Class I; Level of Evidence A). Table 3. 