ABSTRACT
Gram stain as a rapid diagnostic test has been available to clinicians ever since the advent of microbiology laboratory. Gram stain provides a de novo glimpse of the microbes at the site of infection. However, appropriateness of the specimens and technical expertise of the laboratory personnel and timeliness of reporting are all essential components to its role in patient care. Table 1 in this chapter summarizes the clinical usefulness of the gram stain in antibiotic stewardship which is parallel to its role in optimal infectious disease management. The information provided in Tables 2 to 6 list the organisms seen on gram stain of specimens from major organ systems and common infections and its role in differentiating colonization form infection. The last table helps the reader correlate clinical scenarios with gram stain findings and interpretation with the goal of choosing appropriate initial empiric antimicrobial therapy while maintaining stewardship of antibiotic use.
