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Enterobacterales Urine Culture with Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing (Qualitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for bacteria in your urine and determines if antibiotics can effectively treat any found infection.

Quick summary

["It helps identify infections and guides treatment choices for urinary tract infections (UTIs)."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105776-9
Short code
Enterobacterales DNA Ct Bld +Qn NAA+prb
Synonyms
Enterobacterales DNA Ct Bld +Qn NAA+prb
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test looks for the presence of bacteria from the Enterobacterales family (such as *E. coli*, *Klebsiella*, or *Proteus*) in your urine. It also evaluates how well certain antibiotics work against these bacteria, helping your healthcare provider choose the best treatment.

Why It’s Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain, fever, or cloudy/painful urine. It’s also used after catheter placement or in cases of suspected urinary tract infection (UTI).

How It’s Done

A sterile urine sample is collected (often via clean-catch or catheter). The sample is cultured to grow bacteria, and antibiotic sensitivity is tested to determine effective treatment options.

What to Expect After

Results may take 2–5 days. You’ll receive feedback on bacterial presence and antibiotic recommendations. Follow-up may include retesting if symptoms persist.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing urinary tract infections caused by Enterobacterales. It ensures targeted antibiotic use, reducing unnecessary exposure and preventing resistance. Results help prevent complications like kidney infections or recurrent UTIs.

Short name

Urine Culture & Antibiotics Check

Frequently asked questions

Will I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid urinating right before collecting the sample. Drink plenty of water to help flush bacteria from your system if possible.
How long will I have to wait for results?
Results typically arrive within 2–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready.
Can I take antibiotics before getting this test?
No, avoid antibiotics unless prescribed by your doctor. Taking them before testing may skew results and delay accurate diagnosis.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy