Microbiology
Microbiology is what they call a "make-or-break" course. It's usually not required for associate's degree
nursing programs, but if you're going for the BSN, it will be a prerequisite. It is an upper-level science
class and the material is very challenging. I loved this class because I found the information fascinating.
It was also one of the first courses where I felt I was learning things I could really use as a nurse. Much
memorization, with some difficult concepts bridging biology and chemistry, but you get to learn how
bacteria and viruses cause disease, how we treat them, and basic immunology. Really interesting stuff!
To help you out, here are some great internet resources you can use to supplement your studies:
Active Learning Centre
http://www.med.jhu.edu/medcenter/quiz/home.cgi
Active Learning Centre is a compilation of self-assessment
tests/databases in different areas of knowledge. The microbiology
section allows you to choose the quiz format (multiple choice, matching or
essay), the number of questions and what you would like to be tested on
(microbial group, features, etc.). It will grade you online, and you can
search the database by keywords/phrases if you want more information.
Atlas of Medical Parasitology
This comprehensive picture atlas includes photos and images of
parasites contributed by scientists and educators around the world. What
I found particularly useful for studying is the manner in which they are
organized - specifically, the parasites are categorized by the area of the
body they attack (CNS, skin, liver, intestines, etc.). Great site for
learning to identify organisms on sight.
Microbiology Help
http://scienceprofonline.googlepages.com/microbiologyhelp
This relatively new science began with the erroneous belief in
spontaneous generation (abiogenesis) and matured into the
germ theory on which today’s understanding of infectious
disease is based. There is a section of links to articles on
Microbiology, followed by a group of links to Micro Worksheets,
Study Guides and Sample Test Questions.