Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On completion of this subject, the student should be able to understand how exchange of genetic material can alter the characteristics of a bacterium; understand how interactions between microbe and host can result in disease; discuss the principles of microbial control and use this knowledge when performing techniques to maintain sterility and prevent transmission of infection; explain the characteristics of the immune response; understand the immune mechanisms responsible for immuno pathological conditions: use the knowledge and understanding gained in solving problems that arise during the nurse caring process.
Synopsis Concepts of microbial ecology. Indigenous flora of humans. Pathogenicity: how microbes cause disease, patterns of disease. Genetics, basic concepts. Control of microorganisms: factors affecting microbial control, physical and chemical control methods, antimicrobial drugs. Epidemiology: disease frequencies and measurement, factors associated with the outbreak of disease, control and prevention of disease in the community and the hospital environment. Immunology: basic concepts, the immune system, immunopathology, serology in microbiological diagnosis. The subject is taught by lectures and laboratory classes.
Assessment Assignments: 20% + Laboratory component: 20% + Tests: 60% + Satisfactory performance in written tests is required to pass the subject