How do you test to see which antibiotics you would give to someone with a bacterial infection?

To determine the appropriate antibiotics for a bacterial infection, healthcare providers typically conduct a culture and sensitivity test. This involves taking a sample from the infected area (like blood, urine, or tissue) and growing the bacteria in a laboratory. Once identified, various antibiotics are tested against the bacteria to see which ones effectively inhibit its growth. The results guide the selection of the most effective antibiotic for treatment.