Culture and Sensitivity, Urine - VITEK
Culture and Sensitivity, Urine - VITEK
A urine culture test is conducted to identify the presence of microorganisms in the urine. This involves collecting a urine sample and cultivating it in a sterile growth medium. By monitoring the growth of bacteria and yeast, this test can detect the existence of microorganisms causing an infection. Furthermore, a sensitivity test is performed to assess the susceptibility of these microorganisms to antibiotics. This testing process is carried out utilizing VITEK, a fully automated system designed for bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility.
Thus, it is recommended to get a urine culture and sensitivity test as it serves as a diagnostic tool for urinary tract infections. This test helps in identifying the particular microorganism that is causing the infection
Symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI)
Painful or difficult urination
Frequent urge to urinate
Burning sensation while urination
Change in the urine colour and appearance
Pain in the lower abdomen
Feeling chills
Unexpected fever
Tiredness
Who should get a Culture and Sensitivity, Urine – VITEK test?
This test is recommended for adults who get frequent or hard-to-treat UTIs. UTIs can affect all genders, but women are more commonly affected than men. Risk factors for frequent UTIs include
Diabetes
Frequent intercourse (having multiple sexual relations)
Kidney diseases such as kidney stones
Problems with emptying the bladder completely
Weakened immune system due to autoimmune disorders, organ transplant or cancer treatments
Test preparation
No special preparation is required to take the urine culture and sensitivity test. Some antibiotics can affect the test results, so make sure that your doctor is aware of any antibiotics that you have taken before the test. Before the test, your doctor may ask you to:
· Avoid peeing for at least an hour before collecting the sample.
· Drink water before the sample collection to ensure there is enough urine for testing.
Collect the urine sample after waking up in the morning
Interpretation of the Test Results
The test result may come as positive or negative.
Positive test result
A positive result from the urine culture and sensitivity test indicates the presence of bacterial colonies in your urine sample. This suggests that you may have a urinary tract or bladder infection.
Negative test result
A negative result from the urine culture and sensitivity test means that no bacterial colonies were found in your urine sample. This means that you do not have a urinary tract infection
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the urine culture and sensitivity test?
A urine sample is used for this test. You will be given a sterile container by your healthcare provider to collect a urine sample.
Midstream urine collection is the proper technique for taking a urine sample. The first few urine drops should be discarded because they could contain microorganisms that are present on the genital surface. It is advised that you clean the area around your genitalia before taking a urine sample
What are the risks involved in the urine culture and sensitivity test sample collection?
Urine sample collection for the urine culture and sensitivity test does not pose any risks
What factors can affect the urine culture and sensitivity test results ?
Improper collection of samples, recent antibiotic use, or inadequate storage conditions may have an impact on the accuracy of the test results
Why are UTIs more common in women compared to men?
Women are more prone to experiencing urinary tract infections (UTIs) because of the anatomical differences in their urethra. The shorter length and proximity to the anus make it more susceptible for bacteria to infiltrate the urinary tract
Can UTIs reoccur?
Recurrent UTIs can be observed in individuals with certain conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, kidney stones etc. To minimize the chances of recurrence, it is crucial to adhere to the healthcare provider’s instructions and complete the entire prescribed course of antibiotics
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