Outline investigations for common bacterial infections?
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May 10
1. Urinary tract infections (UTIs): - Collect a urine sample for analysis and culture to identify the causative bacteria. - Perform a physical examination to check for symptoms such as frequent urination, pain or burning during urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. - Consider imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to evaluate the urinary tract for any abnormalities.
2. Skin infections (such as cellulitis or impetigo): - Take a swab of the affected area for bacterial culture and sensitivity testing. - Perform a physical examination to assess the extent and severity of the infection. - Consider blood tests to check for signs of systemic infection or underlying conditions that may predispose to skin infections.
3. Respiratory infections (such as pneumonia or bronchitis): - Collect a sputum sample for analysis and culture to identify the causative bacteria. - Perform a chest X-ray to evaluate the lungs for signs of infection. - Consider blood tests to check for signs of systemic infection and to assess the patient's overall health.
4. Gastrointestinal infections (such as food poisoning or gastroenteritis): - Take a stool sample for analysis and culture to identify the causative bacteria. - Perform a physical examination to check for symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. - Consider imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to evaluate the gastrointestinal tract for any abnormalities.
5. Sexually transmitted infections (such as chlamydia or gonorrhea): - Collect samples from the affected area (e.g. genital swabs) for analysis and culture to identify the causative bacteria. - Perform a physical examination to check for symptoms such as genital discharge, pain or burning during urination, and genital sores or ulcers. - Consider blood tests to check for signs of systemic infection and to assess the patient's overall health.
- Imaging: To assess extent and severity of infection, such as CT scan or MRI - Serology: To detect antibodies indicating past or present infection - Molecular diagnostics: To identify specific pathogens, such as PCR or gene sequencing - Antimicrobial susceptibility testing: To guide antimicrobial treatment choices
Considerations:
- Patient history and clinical signs can help narrow down the likely pathogens. - The choice of investigations depends on the suspected site and severity of infection. - Early and appropriate investigations are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. - Infection control measures are essential to prevent transmission.