Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

This course focuses on medical mycology and parasitology.  Presents the terminology, epidemiology, disease processes and common etiologic agents associated with cutaneous, subcutaneous, systemic and opportunistic fungal infections. The macroscopic and microscopic features, required media, biochemical reactions and other techniques required for identification of the organisms are included. Identification of amoeba, flagellate, coccidian, trematode, cestod, nematode and arachnida parasites are covered, including identification of structures, life cycles, transmission and associated diseases.

• Use an understanding of medical mycology and parasitology to make appropriate and effective on-the-job professional decisions.
• Apply parasitology/mycology laboratory techniques, methodologies, instruments and equipment; and accurately identify, record, and report results to improve patient care.
• Adapt parasitology and mycology  laboratory techniques/procedures when errors and discrepancies in results are obtained to effect resolution in a professional and timely manner.

The class is presented by means of hybrid format: lecture/discussion and audio-visual presentations are presented in a web based instructional media; complementary laboratory exercises are conducted on campus. Comprehensive lab work requires demonstration of competency to receive a satisfactory grade. A laboratory manual is provided. The laboratory exercises provide an opportunity for students to employ the testing principles and methodologies discussed and allow for discussion, application and correlation of the concepts presented.  The student is expected to perform all laboratory procedures according to the criteria established by the department. 

Assessment methods may include written and practical examinations, homework assignments and discussion activities. Student knowledge application, laboratory performance, problem solving skills, punctuality and attendance, participation, and communication skills is assessed in each laboratory exercise utilizing an evaluation rubric that includes cognitive, psychomotor and affective learning domains.  

Course Themes:

• Medical Mycology
  • Basic structures
  • Dermatophytes
  • Cutaneous and subcutaneous mycoses
  • Systemic mycoses
  • Opportunistic mycoses
  • Testing principles and methodologies
• Medical Parasitology
  • Amoebas
  • Flagellates
  • Malaria and other coccidian
  • Helminths
  • Testing principles and methodologies

Skills:

Knowledge and Application (Cognitive Skills):

• Cognitive processes
  • Explain medical mycology and parasitology theory supporting test principles
  • Integrate knowledge and make informed judgments about medical mycology and parasitology test results  in the clinical setting
  • Formulate a clear, answerable question
  • Predict expected results
  • Follow written protocols and verbal instructions
• Analysis skills
  • Collect and organize data in a systematic fashion
  • Present data in an appropriate form
  • Assess the validity of the data (including integrity and significance)
  • Draw appropriate conclusions based on the results
• Troubleshooting and problem solving
  • Recognize errors or discrepancies in results during lab procedures
  • Select corrective actions for problem solving
• Safety skills
  • Recognize safety equipment and laboratory safety measures
• Communication skills
  • Discuss and present lab results or findings in the laboratory
• Interpersonal and citizenry skills
  • Work effectively in teams or groups so that the task, results, and analysis may be shared
  • Effectively manage time and tasks allowing concurrent and/or overlapping tasks to be done simultaneously, by individuals and/or within a group
  • Integrate knowledge and make informed judgments about general safety in everyday life

Performance (Psychomotor Skills):

• Utilize safety measures and equipment
  • Utilize adequate personal protective equipment, sharp container, fume hood and other safety devices
• Use microscope and stereoscope to observe and identify parasites and fungi in clinical specimens

Professional (Affective) Skills:

• Demonstrate interest, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn as seen through active participation.
• Show initiative and motivation as demonstrated by independence in performing routine procedures, preparation before class, decreased need for supervision, willingness to go beyond the required assignments, and recognition of opportunities to improve quality and productivity of work.
• Adapt to stressful and/or new situations by maintaining composure and flexibility without compromising individual integrity.
• Exhibit teamwork through cooperation, courtesy, respect, and sensitivity towards others.
• Convey a professional attitude as shown by an appropriate level of confidence and a positive outlook toward work and other people.
• Demonstrate integrity as shown by the admission and documentation of errors, recognition of the potential danger of short cuts, and the maintenance of patient and co-worker confidentiality.
• Act responsibly and reliably as measured by punctuality, attendance, dependability, and quality of work.
• Respond favorably to supervision and feedback.
• Persevere until task is completed satisfactorily.