Module 5: Lab Activity on Aseptic Techniques and Media Preparation

To study bacteria and other microorganisms, it is necessary to grow them in controlled conditions in the laboratory. Growth media contain a variety of nutrients necessary to sustain the growth of microorganisms. There are two commonly used physical forms of growth media: liquid media and solid growth media. A liquid medium is called a broth. Solid growth media usually contains agar, which is a mixture of polysaccharides derived from red algae. It is used as a solidification agent because it (1) is not broken down by bacteria, (2) contains no nutrients that can be used by bacteria and (3) melts at high temperatures, and yet is solid at temperatures used for most bacterial growth. Solid growth media is used in the following forms: agar plates, agar slants and agar deeps. To make agar deeps or agar slants, melted agar is poured into a test tube and then allowed to solidify vertically (agar deep), or at a slant (agar slant). Agar plates are made by pouring melted agar into a petri dish.   

1. Demonstrate proper aseptic technique during media preparation, culture handling, and inoculation procedures (Course Outcomes #3, 5 & 6)
   
2. Prepare common microbiological culture media following established laboratory protocols. (C.O. #3, 5 & 6)
3. Explain the purpose and composition of different types of culture media and calculate the required media for preparation (general-purpose, selective, differential, and enriched media).(C.O. #3 & 5)
4. Inoculate, incubate, and interpret results of bacterial cultures using aseptic techniques in face-to-face or virtual laboratory settings. (C.O. #3, 5, & 6)
5. Enumerate bacterial growth using the standard plate count method and interpret results. (C.O. #3 & 6)
6. Utilize digital tools or virtual laboratory platforms to simulate aseptic techniques and analyze experimental outcomes. (C.O. #6)
7. Apply aseptic technique and media preparation skills to clinical and public health scenarios relevant to nursing and allied health. (C.O. #5 & 6)
8. Interpret experimental results related to media preparation, contamination control, and microbial growth. (C.O. #3, 5, & 6)

To achieve these objectives: 

[Welcome to this module! To be successful, please complete the activities in the sequence listed below. Each activity is designed to build your microbiology knowledge while also strengthening essential digital, scientific, and communication skills needed for today’s workforce.]

1. Read the Module 5 Introduction: This provides the purpose of the module, key themes, and the learning outcomes you are expected to achieve by the end of this lab.   
2. Read Lab Activity # 5 in Microbiology for Nursing/Allied Health Lab Manual 
3. Complete the [following activities in order. ** Please click on the fillable checklist for this laboratory Module and as you complete each activity, check off each box as you go.]

Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities

You will find the following resources and activities in this module at the Pressbooks website. Click on the links below to access or complete each item.