Simulated proficiency test specimens in enteric bacteriology.

A procedure for proficiency test sample preparation in enteric bacteriology is described and evaluated. Research indicates that a mixture of cooked meat and glucose provides an appropriate supporting substrate for simulation of clinical specimens. Mixed cultures of enteric bacteria were added to the substrate, the mixture lyophilized, and distributed to participating laboratories for testing. This procedure permits an assessment of the isolation capabilities of laboratory media, as well as identification skills.