8 Summary

In this module you have learned about microbiology tests used to isolate and identify key human pathogens which are the focus of the WHOGLASS programme. Some of these tests are routinely performed in a hospital microbiology laboratory while other, more advanced techniques are used only in reference laboratories. You have also been introduced to factors related to sample quality and sample handling which can negatively impact testing, and to QC measures which can help ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results.

You should now be able to:

  • know where samples are obtained from and reflect on the process by which bacterial samples are processed in your workplace
  • describe the principles of laboratory tests used to isolate and identify key bacterial pathogens in human health, that are the focus of the GLASS programme
  • know when and why advanced testing such as mass spectrometry and automated systems are used
  • know the importance of procedures designed to ensure the quality of laboratory work relating to isolating and identifying bacteria in your workplace.

Now that you have completed this module, consider the following questions:

  • What is the single most important lesson that you have taken away from this module?
  • How relevant is it to your work?
  • Can you suggest ways in which this new knowledge can benefit your practice?

When you have reflected on these, go to your reflective blog [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)]   and note down your thoughts.

Activity 16: Reflecting on your progress

Timing: Allow 10 minutes

Do you remember at the beginning of this module you were asked to take a moment to think about these learning outcomes and how confident you felt about your knowledge and skills in these areas?

Now that you have completed this module, take some time to reflect on your progress and use the interactive tool to rate your confidence in these areas using the following scale:

  • 5 Very confident
  • 4 Confident
  • 3 Neither confident nor not confident
  • 2 Not very confident
  • 1 Not at all confident

Try to use the full range of ratings shown above to rate yourself. 

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Interactive feature not available in single page view (see it in standard view).

When you have reflected on your answers and your progress on this module, go to your reflective blog and note down your thoughts.

7 End-of-module quiz

9 Your experience of this module