MLS 608L - Clinical Microbiology Laboratory

(1 unit)

This course will introduce students to the microbial species that cause human disease. The course will cover pathogenic bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, and discuss current topics including antibiotic resistance, public health threats, and global health. Instruction will cover the theory, practical application, and pathogenesis of tests and organisms encountered in microbiology, including collection, quality control, quality assurance, safety, setup, identification, susceptibility testing, and reporting results.

Maximum units a student may earn: 1

Prerequisite(s): MLS 605 and MLS 606

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Laboratory/Studio: 1
Offered: Every Spring

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. describe proper specimen collection, handling, and labeling techniques in accordance with biosafety guidelines.
2. apply aseptic technique to inoculate, incubate, and handle microbiological cultures.
3. perform and interpret Gram stains and other differential stains with accuracy.
4. inoculate clinical specimens onto appropriate media and recognize colony morphology.
5. identify organisms based on biochemical test results and manual identification methods.
6. use automated systems (e.g., VITEK, MALDI-TOF) for identification and susceptibility testing.
7. perform antimicrobial susceptibility testing and interpret zone sizes or MIC values per CLSI standards.
8. evaluate and interpret quality control results for media, reagents, and testing procedures.
9. demonstrate correct procedures for handling and disposing of biohazardous materials.
10. document and report laboratory findings clearly, accurately, and in compliance with laboratory protocols.
11. identify pre-analytical, analytical and post-analytical causes of error in laboratory testing.

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