Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam

Sputum culture and sensitivity testing is primarily indicated for which condition?

1. Asthma

2. Bacterial pneumonia

3. Chronic bronchitis

4. Pneumothorax

The correct answer is: Bacterial pneumonia

Sputum culture and sensitivity testing holds significant importance in diagnosing and managing bacterial pneumonia. This test is used to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine which antibiotics will be most effective against that pathogen. In cases of bacterial pneumonia, a sputum sample is collected from the patient's lungs and examined in a laboratory setting. This process is crucial because bacterial pneumonia can lead to serious complications if not appropriately treated. By pinpointing the exact bacteria involved, healthcare providers can tailor antibiotic therapy to better address the infection, considering factors like resistance patterns, which helps ensure more effective treatment and improved patient outcomes. In contrast, conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pneumothorax do not typically require sputum culture and sensitivity testing as primary diagnostic tools. Asthma and chronic bronchitis are primarily assessed through clinical evaluation and, in some cases, spirometry or other pulmonary function tests, while pneumothorax is diagnosed through imaging studies. Thus, bacterial pneumonia is the condition where sputum culture and sensitivity testing is most critically indicated.