Question

A test similar to the one shown (Figure 25.23) is used to check a patient's sputum sample for the presence of S. pneumoniae. After running the test for the appropriate length of time, a laboratory technician reports that no lines appeared on the test. Which of the following would best describe the results of this test?

Choose one:
A. The patient sample would be considered a false positive.
B. The test would be considered nonspecific.
C. The test would be considered invalid.
D. The patient sample would be considered a true negative.

Answer 1

The test would be considered invalid if no lines appeared after the appropriate length of time.

Step-by-step explanation:

The test would be considered invalid.

If no lines appeared on the test after running it for the appropriate length of time, it means that the test did not produce any results. This could be due to various reasons such as a faulty test kit, improper testing procedure, or a problem with the sputum sample itself. In such cases, the test would be considered invalid and would need to be repeated.