Specimen collection: A sample is taken from the suspected ite of infection, such as blood, urine, sputum, or a wound swab
inoculation: The sample is inoculated onto a culture medium that provides nutrients for bacterial growth. The type of medium used can vary depending on the suspected organism and the clinical presentation.
Incubation: The inoculated medium is incubated at the appropriate temperature and conditions for the suspected organism to grow. Incubation times can vary depending on the type of bacteria being tested for.
Observation: The culture is observed for any growth of bacterial colonies. Depending on the suspected organism, it may take several days or even weeks for colonies to appear.
Identification: Once colonies have grown, they can be identified using various methods such as Gram staining, biochemical testing, or molecular methods such as PCR
Sensitivity testing: If a bacterial isolate is identified, it can be tested for antibiotic susceptibility using various methods such as disk diffusion or broth microdilution.