An Upper Respiratory Specimen Contains Many Indigenous Organisms Which May

question 24

Multiple Choice

An upper respiratory specimen contains many indigenous organisms which may be time consuming, cost prohibitive, and insurmountable. What should the microbiologist do?

• A) Work quickly with commercially available kits to identify all organisms present in a sputum specimen for the best quality patient care available.
• B) Work up only the gram-negative rods present in the culture.
• C) Differentiate the potential pathogens from the "usual" inhabitants of the upper respiratory tract and direct the diagnostic workup only to potential pathogens.
• D) Be able to ascertain whether the results generated by a commercial or automated system correlate with the suspected organism.

Understand the distinction between point source and nonpoint source pollution.

Recognize the efficacy and limitations of private tort actions in environmental protection.

Identify the evolution of responsibility for air pollution control between states and the federal government.

Comprehend the legal principles governing nuisance suits and liability in environmental law.

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Definitions:

Staphylococcus

A genus of gram-positive bacteria, known for forming clusters resembling grapes, and can cause a variety of diseases in humans.

Propionibacterium

A genus of gram-positive bacteria associated with the production of propionic acid and found in dairy products and as part of human skin flora.

Ringworm

A fungal infection of the skin characterized by ring-shaped, red, itchy patches.

Fungus

A kingdom of spore-producing organisms feeding on organic matter, including molds, yeast, mushrooms, and toadstools.