Which test is commonly abbreviated as C&S and is used to identify bacterial species and determine antibiotic susceptibility?

• A. Urine Culture
• B. Gram Stain
• C. PCR
• D. Culture and Sensitivity

Answer: (D)

Culture and Sensitivity refers to a two-part lab approach: first, culture to identify the bacterial species present in the sample; second, susceptibility testing to determine which antibiotics will be effective against that organism. This combined test is used to tailor treatment, ensuring the chosen antibiotic actually works and helping to prevent resistance. The abbreviation C&S specifically denotes this paired process, not just simply growing bacteria or identifying them alone. While a urine culture or Gram stain provides information about presence or characteristics of bacteria, they don’t by themselves indicate which antibiotics will be effective. PCR detects genetic material and is not routinely used to determine antibiotic susceptibility, and culture by itself lacks the actionable resistance data that the sensitivity portion provides.