Because cell wall-damaged bacteria, antibiotic-treated bacteria, or dead bacteria may appear falsely gram-negative, the following are considered "critical cocharacteristics" that assist in the interpretation of the smear include

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The shape and size of bacteria are critical characteristics for interpreting a gram stain, and can help identify the organism even if it appears falsely gram-negative due to cell wall damage or antibiotic treatment. Color and size alone are not sufficient for accurate identification, and growth characteristics are not relevant to the initial interpretation of a gram stain.

Because Cell Wall-Damaged Bacteria, Antibiotic-Treated Bacteria, or Dead Bacteria May