Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

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What is the purpose of susceptibility testing?

  1. Identifies the appropriate antibiotic needed to kill the pathogen

  2. Measures how fast a pathogen can be destroyed

  3. Identifies the type of microorganism in the system

  4. Produces a pure culture

The correct answer is: Identifies the appropriate antibiotic needed to kill the pathogen

The purpose of susceptibility testing is to identify the appropriate antibiotic needed to effectively eliminate a specific pathogen. This process involves exposing the pathogen to different antibiotics to determine which one can inhibit its growth or kill it, thus guiding clinicians in selecting the most effective treatment for the infection. By determining the susceptibility of the microorganism, healthcare providers can ensure that patients receive targeted therapy that is more likely to be successful in treating their infections. Understanding the factors influencing susceptibility, such as dosage and bacterial resistance mechanisms, is essential for optimal patient outcomes. This is critical in the context of antibiotic resistance, as the right choice of antibiotic can not only hasten recovery but also help prevent the spread of resistant strains in the community.