The rapid strep test is a diagnostic rapid antigen test used to detect whether Group A Streptococcus is present in the throat of a patient, aiding in the diagnosis of bacterial pharyngitis, commonly known as strep throat. Several types of rapid strep tests are available, each with their own types of equipment and testing procedure. By design, each one of them is engineered to detect the presence of Group A Streptococcus-specific antigens on a throat swab taken from the back of the patient’s throat. The test is quick and within minutes can determine if a patient has Group A Streptococcus. A positive result can help the physician determine the best course of treatment, including prescribing antibiotics or ordering further testing.
You'll Learn
- Relevant medical terminology
- Correct pre-procedure techniques
- To identify the key anatomical structures comprising the pharynx and tonsillar region
- How to identify the signs of streptococcus
- Methods for collecting and processing a throat swab
- Methods for interpreting test results
- Correct documentation and post-procedure requirements
- And much more (see Content Details for more specific information)
