6. Follow instructions as mentioned in the test procedure

for performance of the test.

Troubleshooting

Problem: Twisting and swirling the media

Possible causes Solutions

1. Slant shaken vigorously This does not hamper the testing procedure. However, and vibrations should be avoided

during storage, shipping and incubation

Problem: Discoloration

Possible causes Solutions

1. Slants stored at higher temperatures, Ensure that slants are stored at 2–8°C to avoid discoloration

i.e. 25°C

2. Contaminated slants If the slants are found contaminated because of various reasons, discard the slants and use

fresh slants to perform the test

Problem: Discrepancy in results

Possible causes Solutions

1. Contamination with non-pathogenic Ensure that clean catch midstream urine samples are used so that surrounding external

bacteria microbial flora do not give discrepant results

 Observe aseptic conditions while performing the test to avoid contamination with nonpathogenic bacteria

2. Urine samples stored for a long period Urine samples should be collected and cultured immediately. Prolonged storage of urine

samples at room temperature may result in multiplication of contaminating organisms and

raise the bacterial count leading to discrepancies

Culturing of first morning urine samples is recommended since the reliability of the test

increases to approximately 100%

3. Patients on antibiotic therapy Samples of patients on antibiotic therapy may not show bacterial growth or may have a low

colony count

Note the history of the patient before diagnosing for infection

Feces