Things to go over for final module exam (60 marks -MCQ + Matching)

What is the definition of culture in microbiology?

A culture is the growth of microorganisms in a controlled environment, often on media.

What is antibiotic susceptibility testing?

It is a method used to determine the effectiveness of antibiotics against bacteria.

What does minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) refer to?

The lowest concentration of an antibiotic that inhibits the growth of a microorganism.

Define aerobic microorganisms.

Microorganisms that require oxygen for growth.

Define anaerobic microorganisms.

Microorganisms that grow in the absence of oxygen.

What is Vibrio?

A genus of bacteria, often comma-shaped, some of which can cause disease.

What shape do cocci microorganisms have?

Spherical shape.

What shape do bacilli microorganisms have?

Rod-shaped.

What are spirochetes?

A group of bacteria characterized by their spiral shape.

Define microbiology.

The study of microorganisms.

What is a microorganism?

Any microscopic organism, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa.

What is a colony in microbiology?

A visible mass of microorganisms, usually derived from a single organism.

What do the terms gram positive and gram negative refer to?

Classification of bacteria based on their cell wall structure and response to Gram staining.

What is gram staining?

A method for identifying bacterial species based on the characteristics of their cell walls.

What is normal flora?

The collection of microorganisms that reside in a specific niche, such as the human body, without causing disease.

What does a catalase test determine?

If a microorganism possesses the enzyme catalase, which breaks down hydrogen peroxide.

What does a coagulase test measure?

The ability of bacteria to produce coagulase, an enzyme that causes clotting of blood plasma.

What is a resistant microorganism?

A microorganism that is not killed or inhibited by a specific antibiotic.

What is a susceptible microorganism?

A microorganism that can be killed or inhibited by a specific antibiotic.

What does communicable mean in microbiology?

Diseases that can be transmitted from one host to another.

What are fastidious bacteria?

Bacteria that have complex nutritional requirements and are difficult to culture.

What does the term host refer to?

An organism that harbors another organism, often providing sustenance.

What is an immunoassay?

A laboratory technique used to detect and quantify antibodies or antigens.

What is agar commonly used for?

A gelatinous substance that serves as a solidifying agent in culture media.

What is the function of a biological safety cabinet?

To provide a sterile environment and protect users from exposure to hazardous organisms.

What is a HEPA filter?

High Efficiency Particulate Air filter, used to trap airborne particles.

What is a stock culture?

A preserved culture of microorganisms used for future experiments.

What is sub-culturing?

Transferring microorganisms from one culture medium to another.

What is selective media used for?

To allow the growth of specific types of bacteria while inhibiting others.

What are indicator media?

Media that contain specific indicators to reveal certain characteristics of bacteria.

What is enriched media?

Media that provide additional nutrients to support the growth of fastidious organisms.

What are enrichment media?

Media designed to favor the growth of particular microorganisms.

What is inoculation in microbiology?

The introduction of microorganisms into a culture medium.

What is an opportunistic pathogen?

A microorganism that can cause disease when the host's immune defenses are compromised.

What is sterilization?

The process of killing all microorganisms, including spores.

What does quality control involve in microbiology?

Ensuring laboratory processes and results meet predefined standards.

What is a quality assurance (QA) program?

A systematic procedure to ensure that laboratory practices conform to industry standards.

What is an SOP in the context of microbiology?

Standard Operating Procedure, which outlines how tasks should be performed.

What does O&P stand for in microbiology?

Ova and Parasite test, used to diagnose parasitic infections.