Abstract
Objectives
Rapid molecular diagnostics enable expedited and accurate microbiological diagnoses. Consequently, these novel platforms have improved patient outcomes through decreased wait ...times from traditional culture research. The objective of this study was to review the improvement in turnaround time (TAT) for confirmation of negative Strep A screen tests in a clinic setting.
Methods
A retrospective review of tests performed was conducted to review the value of the implementation of rapid molecular tests to confirm negative screen tests for Streptococcus. During the implementation process, the negative screen results were also sent for culture in a traditional microbiology lab. The results of the molecular tests and traditional culture were compared congruently to assess the difference in test results and also to assess the TAT. The results of culture and rapid molecular tests were then compared.
Results
A significant improvement in turnaround time was noted in the results of molecular tests in comparison to traditional culture results. An improvement of 48 hours was seen in the retrieval of results by clinicians and patients alike.
Conclusion
The incorporation of rapid molecular tests in the facility helped significantly in the improvement of turnaround time for the confirmation of Strep A results. The implementation of these rapid molecular diagnostics has not only provided efficiencies in the workflow of the practice but also has been touted by clinicians to improve patient satisfaction and outcomes.
PDF
