Chapter 45 Microbiology

Bacteria-

(singular bacterium) are small unicellular microorganisms that are capable of rapid reproduction. Most bacteria thrive in a warm, dark, moist environment. - Maybe named for their morphology (form or shape) • Cocci are spherical • Bacilli are rod-shaped • Spirilla (spiral- shaped)

Culturette-

disposable, clear plastic tube; a sterile, transported immediately so the microorganisms remain Viable (capable of living) when they reach the laboratory.

Microbiology

is the study of living organisms too small to be seen with the naked eye (microorganisms).

Serology Testing-

is the study the antigen and antibody reactions of the body's immune system.

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)-

organism resistant to penicillin and cephalosporin normally used for treatment and render these antibiotics ineffectively.

Culture and sensitivity test-

performed to determine the organisms and what medications kill them.

Strep test-

the Group A strep Screen is a test that is done frequently in POL's.

Fungi

the study of fungi, is known as mycology, fungi are present in soil, water, and air, fungi are unable to make their own food so they depend on other life forms.

Smear-

thin layer of microorganisms spread on a glass slide for identification purposes.

Culture consideration-

when collecting specimens, assure privacy and modesty.

Sterile swabs a disposable,

-are frequently used in collection of specimens.

Rules of specimen collection

-identify pt. name and date of birth explain the procedure -assure all pretest instructions are followed. -collect specimen before beginning antibiotic - collect sufficient amount in sterile container, close tightly - Label container with time date name type of specimen and your initials. -fill out requisition form deliver specimen promptly, store until lab can obtain.

Classes or Microorganisms

1.Bacteria- most numerous of all microorganisms, unicellular, pathogenic to humans and identified by shape and appearance. a. Staphylococci- grape like cluster b. Streptococci- chains of cells c. Diplococci - form pairs of cells 2.Fungi- parasitic and some nonparasitic plants and mold, depend on other life forms for their nutrition, reproduction method is budding and yeast is a typical fungus. 3.Protozoa- one- celled organism, both parasitic and nonparasitic, can move with cilia or false feet. 4.Viruses- smallest of microorganisms, can only be seen with electron microscope, can only multiply with living cell (host), difficult to kill with chemotherapy because they become resistant to the drug, can be destroyed by heat (autoclave sterilization) but not by chemical disinfection and feed on antibiotics.

Type of Specimens taken at the office

Throat- most frequently requested in POL, based on signs and symptoms of upper respiratory infection, sore throat, sinus infection. Performed- when performing be sure not to touch the inside of the mouth or the tongue with the swab to avoid contamination, to reduce the gag reflex have the Pt. say AHHH and tilt head back, and stick out the tongue. Sputum- (mucous substance expelled by coughing or clearing the bronchi) used in diagnosing streptococcal pneumonia, influenza and tuberculosis TB. Performed- the -Pt. is instructed to cough deeply and spit up the coughed material into a sterile container, try not to get saliva, and perform to obtain upon rising in the morning. Urine- collected by cauterization, clean catch midstream Stool- tested for bacterial, parasitic or protozoal infections, for the presence of occult blood (hidden blood), and for excessive amounts of fat