Abstract: A method and system for the detection and identification of a target pathogen in a sample is disclosed. The method and system involve the use of a capture matrix throughout resuscitation, growth, and detection. The method includes the steps of: placing the sample in a sampling container containing a medium (preferably a growth/resuscitation medium); optionally homogenizing the sample; placing a capture matrix in the sampling container with the sample; incubating the sample in the medium for a pre-determined amount of time at an appropriate temperature; optionally removing the capture matrix from the sampling container; and detecting the presence of the target pathogen in the sample.

Abstract: A method and system for the detection and identification of a target pathogen in a sample is disclosed. The method and system involve the use of a capture matrix throughout resuscitation, growth, and detection. The method includes the steps of: placing the sample in a sampling container containing a medium (preferably a growth/resuscitation medium); optionally homogenizing the sample; placing a capture matrix in the sampling container with the sample; incubating the sample in the medium for a pre-determined amount of time at an appropriate temperature; optionally removing the capture matrix from the sampling container; and detecting the presence of the target pathogen in the sample.

Abstract: A rapid screening method for the detection and identification of target microorganisms in a sample which may contain both target microorganisms and competing non-target microorganisms includes the steps of enriching a sample in a mildly selective medium, incubating the sample in the growth medium for a predetermined amount of time, adding at least one inhibitor of the non-target microorganisms to the growth medium to discourage the growth of non-target microorganisms and to encourage the growth of target microorganisms. The method further includes the steps of incubating the sample in the growth medium including at least one inhibitor for a predetermined amount of time, performing biochemical assays specific for the identification of the target microorganisms, and detecting the presence of the target microorganisms in the sample. The invention further provides a system for the rapid detection of microorganisms in a sample.