Module 11: Microbial Growth – Physical Factors

In your previous studies, you’ve learned the basics of bacterial growth and how microbes cause infections. This module builds on that knowledge by examining how physical factors like temperature, pH, and osmotic pressure affect bacterial growth and survival. Through hands-on experiments measuring bacterial growth over time, you’ll explore how different bacteria adapt to various environments—such as heat-loving or acid-loving microbes—and how these conditions influence infection risks. From a nursing perspective, understanding these concepts is essential because it helps you appreciate how environmental factors can affect pathogen behavior and patient outcomes. This knowledge equips you to better interpret lab results, support infection prevention strategies, and contribute to effective patient care and antibiotic stewardship in your future nursing career.

Image: Adapted from Petersen J. & McLaughlin S., Laboratory Exercises in Microbiology: Discovering the Unseen World Through Hands-On Investigation, Queensborough Community College, Fall 2016. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.” (Petersen & McLaughlin, 2016)

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

• Explain the impact of temperature on microbial growth (Linked COs: 1)
• Describe microbial adaptations to different pH environments (Linked COs: 1)
• Analyze the effects of osmotic pressure on bacterial cells (Linked COs: 1)

1. read and understand the lab manual 
   
2. Read Chapter 7 in Microbiology for Nursing/Allied Health 
3. Complete the H5P questions in the lab manual

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