Gastroenteritis in Children:
Gastroenteritis in Children: ( 15 Questions)
The child presents with diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever.
Which diagnostic test may be performed to identify the causative organism in bacterial infections related to gastroenteritis?
The correct answer. Stool culture and sensitivity testing are essential diagnostic tests for identifying the causative organism in bacterial infections related to gastroenteritis. This test helps determine the specific bacteria causing the infection and their susceptibility to antibiotics, guiding appropriate treatment.
Blood tests to assess kidney function are not specific to diagnosing gastroenteritis or its causative organism. These tests are more relevant in assessing kidney-related issues.
Imaging studies such as abdominal ultrasound are not the primary diagnostic tests for identifying the causative organism in gastroenteritis. These studies are used for visualizing the internal structures of the abdomen and may not provide specific information about the infectious agent.
Viral testing using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is valuable for detecting viruses, but it is not the first-line diagnostic test for bacterial infections related to gastroenteritis. Stool culture and sensitivity testing are more appropriate in this context.
Choice A rationale:
The correct answer.
Stool culture and sensitivity testing are essential diagnostic tests for identifying the causative organism in bacterial infections related to gastroenteritis.
This test helps determine the specific bacteria causing the infection and their susceptibility to antibiotics, guiding appropriate treatment.
Choice B rationale:
Blood tests to assess kidney function are not specific to diagnosing gastroenteritis or its causative organism.
These tests are more relevant in assessing kidney-related issues.
Choice C rationale:
Imaging studies such as abdominal ultrasound are not the primary diagnostic tests for identifying the causative organism in gastroenteritis.
These studies are used for visualizing the internal structures of the abdomen and may not provide specific information about the infectious agent.
Choice D rationale:
Viral testing using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is valuable for detecting viruses, but it is not the first-line diagnostic test for bacterial infections related to gastroenteritis.
Stool culture and sensitivity testing are more appropriate in this context.