Bacteria testing involves obtaining a sample from the patient and examining it in a lab.
Sample Collection for Bacteria Testing
To determine the type of bacteria causing an infection, healthcare professionals need to collect a sample for testing. The type of sample taken depends on the location of the suspected infection. According to the provided reference, samples may include:
- Blood: For infections circulating in the bloodstream.
- Urine: For urinary tract infections.
- Skin: For skin infections.
- Other tissue: For infections in specific areas of the body.
Laboratory Examination of Bacteria
Once the sample is collected, the healthcare professional will examine a large number of bacteria cells within the sample to identify the type of bacteria present. This usually involves:
- Culturing: Growing the bacteria in a controlled environment.
- Staining: Using dyes to make the bacteria more visible under a microscope.
- Microscopy: Using microscopes to observe the shape and characteristics of the bacteria.
- Biochemical Tests: Performing tests to identify the bacteria based on their metabolic properties.
- Molecular Tests: Analyzing the genetic material of the bacteria for identification and drug resistance.
Summary of Bacteria Testing
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Sample Collection | Obtaining a sample like blood, urine, skin, or other tissue. The specific sample depends on where the infection seems to be located. |
| 2. Sample Examination | A large number of bacteria cells are examined to identify the type of bacteria present. |
| 3. Lab Analysis | The sample is analyzed using techniques such as culturing, staining, microscopy, biochemical tests and molecular testing. |
