MEDL 225 - Microbiology Techniques I

MAJOR COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of this course the student will be expected to:

1. Comply with all institutional safety policies, OSHA, and Bloodborne Pathogen Standards.
2. Use established criteria to identify and evaluate specimen acceptability.
3. Demonstrate proficiency in aseptic handling of bacteriologic specimens.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of bacterial, viral and rickettsial descriptions and classifications.
5. Select the proper media for and correctly process bacteriologic specimens in accordance to identification and detection of microorganisms and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
6. Identify unknown organisms using techniques presented in laboratory exercises in reference to biochemical, immunological, serological methodologies for identification and detection of microorganisms.
7. Apply principles of quality assurance and quality control.
8. Recognize the need for and implement corrective action as applicable for pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical situations.
9. Correlate test results with patient conditions.

COURSE CONTENT: Topical areas of study include -  

LECTURE CONTENT

• Bacterial cell structure, physiology, metabolism, and genetics
• Host-pathogen interaction
• Specimen collection and handling
• Colony morphology/microscopic examination
• Staphylococci
• Streptococci
• Neisseria and Moraxella
• Antimicrobial susceptibility testing
• Antibiotic mechanisms of action and resistance

Laboratory Content:

• Streaking isolation/interpretation
• Gram staining
• Identification of unknowns
• Sensitivity testing (if applicable)
• Case studies

Identification/differentiation testing (but not limited to)

1. Coagulase
2. Catalase
3. Indole
4. Novobiocin
5. Oxidase
6. Beta lactamase
7. TSI slants