Grams Stain, Urethral Swab

Description

This Gram stain examines samples collected from the urethra using a swab. It’s primarily used to diagnose urethritis and certain sexually transmitted infections, particularly gonorrhea. The test can quickly identify the presence and type of bacteria, which is crucial for guiding initial treatment decisions. It’s especially useful in distinguishing between gonococcal and non-gonococcal urethritis. While not as definitive as culture, this rapid test allows for prompt initiation of appropriate antibiotic therapy. It’s often performed as part of a comprehensive workup for suspected urinary tract or genital infections, especially in symptomatic patients or those with high-risk sexual behaviors.