**Core Concept**
Transport medium is a crucial component in the collection and handling of stool specimens suspected to contain enteric pathogens. It helps to maintain the viability of the microorganisms during transportation to the laboratory, allowing for accurate diagnosis and identification.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The recommended transport medium for stool specimens suspected to contain enteric pathogens is Cary-Blair medium. This medium is specifically designed to maintain the viability of enteric bacteria, such as Salmonella, Shigella, and E. coli, by providing an optimal environment for their growth. Cary-Blair medium consists of a mixture of agar, salt, and other nutrients that help to preserve the microorganisms during transportation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** **Selenite F broth** is used for the isolation of Salmonella, but it is not the recommended transport medium for stool specimens suspected to contain enteric pathogens.
**Option B:** **Mannitol salt agar** is used for the isolation of Staphylococcus aureus, and it is not suitable for the transport of enteric pathogens.
**Option C:** **Blood agar** is a general-purpose medium used for the isolation of a wide range of microorganisms, but it is not the recommended transport medium for stool specimens suspected to contain enteric pathogens.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When collecting stool specimens for the suspected enteric pathogens, it is essential to use a sterile container and to transport the specimen to the laboratory as soon as possible. The use of an appropriate transport medium, such as Cary-Blair medium, can help to ensure the accurate diagnosis and identification of the microorganisms.
**Correct Answer:** C. Cary-Blair medium.
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