What should you know about a urine culture sensitivity test?

The culture part checks whether organisms grow from the sample and may name the organism. The sensitivity part tests how that organism responds to selected antibiotics. A report may show no growth, a possible contaminant, or growth that fits a urinary infection. Symptoms, the sample quality, pregnancy, kidney function, allergies, and previous antibiotic exposure affect the treatment decision. A positive culture is not interpreted in isolation, especially when there are no urinary symptoms.

Follow clean-catch instructions: wash as directed, begin urinating into the toilet, then collect the middle portion without touching the inside of the container. Hand it in promptly or store it exactly as instructed. If possible, provide the sample before starting antibiotics, but do not delay urgent care for a dangerous illness. Your clinician may change, narrow, or stop treatment when the report is available. Read more about Antibiotic Treatment if medicine is prescribed.

Seek prompt medical care for fever with chills, pain in the side or back, vomiting, feeling faint, or worsening illness, as these can occur with a Kidney Infection. Pregnancy, severe illness, inability to keep fluids down, or confusion also needs timely assessment. Call for advice if symptoms do not improve after treatment begins or return after it ends.

Ask whether the sample was suitable, what organism grew, which antibiotics were sensitive, and when to expect improvement. Confirm how long to take the prescribed medicine, what to do if a dose is missed, and whether a repeat sample is needed.