Basic Microbiology for the Clinical Laboratory
Course Objectives
- Describe the major groups of microorganisms and explain their significance in human health and disease.
- Identify common methods used in the clinical laboratory to detect and characterize infectious agents.
- Explain how specimen quality, collection technique, and transport conditions impact microbiological testing.
- Recognize the role of phlebotomists in preventing contamination and ensuring accurate diagnostic results.
- Apply basic microbiology knowledge to support infection control practices and improve patient safety in the healthcare setting.
Course Content
Course Creator: Kristen Moylan BSPH, CCRC
Total CE Hours: 1 Credit Hour
Pace Course #: 586-2508-25
Course Description : This course offers a practical overview of microbiology with a focus on its role in the clinical laboratory. While phlebotomists may not perform the actual microbiological testing, the quality of the samples they collect is a critical first step in obtaining accurate results. Participants will be introduced to the major categories of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, learning how these organisms impact human health. The course will explore basic microbial structure and function, methods of growth and transmission, and the ways in which laboratories identify infectious agents.
In addition to the science, attention will be given to the real-world application of microbiology in phlebotomy practice. Learners will review how collection technique, proper labeling, and correct transport conditions can directly affect the recovery and identification of pathogens. Case-based examples will highlight how errors at the pre-analytical stage can compromise test results, delay diagnosis, or lead to misinterpretation of a patient’s condition.
By connecting microbiology concepts to everyday responsibilities, this course aims to strengthen the phlebotomist’s understanding of why infection control practices, specimen handling procedures, and communication with the laboratory team are so important. Upon completion, participants will not only have a stronger foundation in microbiology but will also gain an appreciation for their essential role in supporting accurate diagnosis and improving patient outcomes.
References:
References:
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- The Science Desk. (2025, August 4). The Five Major Types of Microorganisms. Science News Today. https://www.sciencenewstoday.org/the-five-major-types-of-microorganisms
- BBC Bitesize. (2018, October 23). What is a microorganism? – KS2 Science curriculum - BBC Bitesize. BBC Bitesize. https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zsgtrwx#z72jfdm
- Cleveland Clinic. (2021, November 24). Bacteria Culture Test: What It Is, Types, Procedure & Results. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22155-bacteria-culture-test
- Cleveland Clinic. (2022, March 16). Gram Stain: What It Is, Purpose, Procedure & Results. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22612-gram-stain
- Cleveland Clinic. (2025, January 21). PCR Test. Cleveland Clinic; Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/21462-covid-19-and-pcr-testing
- Kansas Hospital Association. (2024). Blood culture contamination and quality improvement strategies. KHA Quality. https://www.khaquality.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/BloodCultures.pdf
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Improving the quality of blood culture collection: Core elements for hospital blood culture improvement. CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/core-elements/pdfs/fs-bloodculture-508.pdf
- CLSI. (2017). Collection of diagnostic venous blood specimens (7th ed., CLSI standard GP41). Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. https://clsi.org/resources/insights/order-of-blood-draw-tubes-and-additives
- College of American Pathologists. (2021). The imprecision in precision medicine: Addressing preanalytics. CAP. https://www.cap.org/member-resources/articles/the-imprecision-in-precision-medicine
