Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing
Antibiotic sensitivity testing is a laboratory procedure used to determine the effectiveness of specific antibiotics against bacteria. This testing helps healthcare providers choose the most appropriate antibiotic for treating infections. By exposing bacteria to various antibiotics, the test reveals which drugs can inhibit or kill the bacteria, guiding treatment decisions.
The process typically involves growing a sample of bacteria from an infected patient and then applying different antibiotics to see which ones are effective. Results are reported as sensitive, intermediate, or resistant, indicating how well the bacteria respond to each antibiotic. This information is crucial for effective infection management.