CIFAL Newcastle - PRIDA Diagnostic Medical Microbiology Postgraduate Diploma
Diagnostic microbiology underpins correct diagnosis and treatment of serious infection. LMIC medical professionals have little opportunity to develop skills and knowledge related to the correct use of the laboratory and this course aims to fill that gap.
A comprehensive course in diagnostic microbiology theory and practice.
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
- Articulate the key introductory theoretical and foundational elements of medical microbiology;
- Understand advanced microbiology topics;
- Identify and implement correct laboratory use;
- Identify and discuss complex cases and issues;
The first semester focuses on foundation-level content and semester 2 addresses more advanced topics.
Introductory topics will include:
- Classification of microbes, pathogenesis, host defenses, immunocompromised states
- Microscopy procedures, pre-analytical issues, diagnostic stewardship
- Basic culture media and biochemical tests
- Gram-positive and negative bacterial identification
- Laboratory safety & Infection prevention & control
For a full list of topics please refer to the course outline.
This course is a minimum of 4 hours per week for 27 weeks and assessment items specific to the content. Assessable items include discussions, group presentations and assessments.
The target audience includes:
- Postgraduate medical registrars/residents from LMIC settings
- LMIC pathologists or physicians who wish to update their diagnostic microbiology and infectious diseases knowledge
- Other interested health care professionals
Participants successfully completing the course will receive a UNITAR Certificate of Completion.