Final answer:
The specimen collection time recommendations for routine bacteriology vary depending on the context. Incubation time for bacterial plates is typically 18-24 hours at a temperature range of 35°C ± 2°C. For specific cases, such as testing antibiotics or diagnosing Bordetella pertussis, different collection and incubation protocols may be followed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The specimen collection time recommendations for routine bacteriology vary depending on the specific context. The standard method for incubating bacterial plates calls for a temperature range of 35°C ± 2°C for 18–24 hours. However, this may be modified based on the laboratory schedule as directed by the instructor. It is important to note the time and temperature for incubation if it deviates from the standard method.
For the specific case of testing antibiotics, a minimum of 18 hours after starting the enrichment culture is recommended. This should be no later than the day before the scheduled investigation. Samples should be subcultured from the enrichment culture to selective and differential media using the streak plate method, allowing isolated colonies to form.
Another example of specimen collection time recommendations is for diagnosing Bordetella pertussis. In the first 2 weeks of infection, the best method is to culture the organism directly from a nasopharyngeal specimen collected from the posterior nasopharynx. The specimen should be streaked onto Bordet-Gengou medium and transported to the laboratory as quickly as possible.