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10 Proven Strategies for Effective MRSA Prevention in Healthcare Settings

MRSA prevention

In the battle against healthcare-associated infections, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) appears to be most common compared to others like ESBL, VRE, and CPE. MRSA is a significant concern in healthcare settings, challenging medical professionals and hospitals to implement robust prevention strategies. Below are ten proven methods that healthcare facilities can adopt to combat MRSA effectively […]

Signs and Symptoms of MRSA Infection

Skin infections

I assume you are searching for signs and symptoms of MRSA infection. This article is for you. Vigilance is critical in healthcare and even in our personal lives. One infection that demands our utmost attention (among others like ESBL)is Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This bacterium strain has evolved to resist many common antibiotics, making early […]

Comprehensive Guide to MacConkey Agar: Composition, Usage, and Bacterial Identification

MacConkey Agar

MacConkey Agar is an essential medium used in microbiology labs to isolate and differentiate Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Enterobacteriaceae. Its importance spans clinical diagnostics, research, and food safety testing.  Composition of MacConkey Agar MacConkey Agar’s main components include: Lactose: Acts as a fermentable carbohydrate. Bile salts: Inhibits gram-positive organisms. Neutral red: pH indicator to detect fermentation […]

Stool Samples For TB Diagnosis

Ziehl-Neelsen stain, positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis

For those of us working in medical laboratories, stool samples for TB diagnosis are not common, and faeces may not seem connected to Tuberculosis at first glance. They’re often dismissed as ‘dirty, smelling samples’ that we, as medical scientists, may not appreciate, but we have no choice. As a medical laboratory scientist, I’ve seen it […]

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Blood Culture using Brain Heart Infusion (BHI)Broth

Introduction This SOP “Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Blood Culture using Brain Heart Infusion (BHI)Broth” outlines blood culture preparation, inoculation, incubation, and interpretation. Different microbiological media are used in the laboratory to cultivate and grow various microorganisms. These broth media are made from a combination of brain and heart tissue infusions from animals, typically cows […]

Standard Operating Procedure for Urine Microscopy, Culture, and Sensitivity (M/C/S)

Urine Microscopy

Urine Microscopy, Culture, and Sensitivity are among the most common tests performed in medical microbiology laboratories worldwide. Patient Preparation: Instruct the patient on proper collection techniques, preferably a midstream, clean-catch urine sample. Provide a sterile urine container. Ensure the patient washes their hands and cleans the genital area before collecting the sample. Label the container […]

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Seminal Fluid Analysis

Introduction This SOP outlines the procedures for the collection, handling, and analysis of semen samples, focusing on assessing male fertility according to the guidelines provided by Monica Cheesbrough. The analysis evaluates semen volume, sperm count, motility, morphology, and additional parameters. Equipment and Materials Sterile, wide-mouthed containers for semen collection Graduated pipettes for volume measurement Hemocytometer […]

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Total White Blood Cell (WBC) Count

Purpose This SOP aims to outline the procedure for determining the Total White Blood Cell (WBC) count in a patient’s blood sample. The WBC count is essential for diagnosing infections, immune disorders, and hematological diseases. Scope This SOP applies to laboratory personnel performing the total WBC count as part of a full blood count (FBC) […]

MRSA Infection

MRSA

Have you ever heard of a “superbug” that’s resistant to most antibiotics? Well, let me introduce you to MRSA infection, a bacterial infection that’s a concern in healthcare settings and communities alike. In this article, I will explain what it is, how it spreads, and, most importantly, how you can protect yourself and your loved […]

10 COMMON MISTAKES PATIENTS MAKE THAT CAN AFFECT THEIR LAB TEST RESULTS

Introduction When it comes to lab tests, accuracy is everything. These tests are indispensable in diagnosing illnesses, monitoring health, and guiding treatments. But we understand that even small mistakes—on the part of the patient or in the lab – can affect the results, right? Whether it’s preparing for the test incorrectly or misunderstanding the results, […]