Final answer:
In microbiology, blood cultures are commonly requested to identify infectious microorganisms, with tests using API panels and Gram staining helping in the diagnostic process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Microbiology commonly requests tests such as blood cultures to detect and identify microorganisms in the blood that can lead to infections. These types of microbiological tests can include the use of biochemical test panels like API test panels, Gram staining for the differentiation of bacteria, and cultures to allow for the growth and subsequent identification of bacteria or fungi. Antibiotics are used to treat infections by targeting and killing certain types of microorganisms, including bacteria, but they do not affect all microorganisms equally. For example, antibiotics are effective against bacteria but not against viruses.