Medical Microbiology Practical Course

Abstract

Basic Training in Practical Medical Microbiology.

Objective

Supplement to the parallel lecture in Medical Microbiology. The aim of the course is to provide students with a solid understanding of the procedures and methods used in clinical microbiological diagnostics. All relevant steps of the microbiological workflow are to be considered: a) pre-analytical phase (including requisition form, sample collection, and transport); b) analytical phase (microbiological testing methods like identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing) and c) post-analytical phase (interpretation of laboratory results). Safe lab-technical handling is imperative, because pathogens of risk groups 1 and 2 are cultured. Basics of Bio-Safety will be conveyed in the course.

Content

The students will be divided into groups and assigned realistically constructed clinical cases. For each case, appropriate specimens will be provided, which must be processed within the context of the case (pre-analytic, analytic, post-analytic aspects). As they work through the cases, students will gain insights into the procedures of a routine clinical microbiology laboratory. The results and observations will be presented by each group in short presentations and discussed collectively.

Resources