Read LabGuide 28 and be able to:

1. Describe the techniques necessary to obtain an adequate specimen.
2. Compare and contrast rapid antigen detection tests vs culture methods in terms of complexity, procedure, and quality control requirements.
3. Discuss the use of the bacitracin disk and evaluation of hemolysis as they pertain to testing for Streptococcus.
4. Given beta hemolytic colonies on selective Streptococcus agar plates, along with inhibition of growth by the bacitracin disc, correctly presumptively identify the organism as Group A Streptococcus.
5. State the proficiency testing requirements associated with testing throat cultures for Streptococcus.