BIOS 256 Week 8 Discussion Looking Ahead

Name

Chamberlain University

BIOS-256 Anatomy & Physiology IV with Lab

Prof. Name

Date

Discussion: Looking Ahead

Hello Professor and Class,

Throughout this eight-week course, we have explored a variety of fascinating concepts related to microbes and microorganisms. One of the most intriguing topics was introduced in Week 4, which focused on controlling microbial growth. We learned that there are three primary methods for controlling microbial growth: physical agents (such as temperature and radiation), chemical agents (including chlorine and alcohol), and mechanical removal (like filtration).

I found it particularly interesting to delve into the terminology associated with controlling microorganisms, especially the distinctions between degermination and decontamination. According to our textbook, decontamination, also known as sanitization, is defined as “the mechanical removal of most microbes.” In contrast, degermination, or antisepsis, involves “the chemical application to body surfaces to destroy or inhibit vegetative pathogens.” Additionally, we learned about two other important terms: sterilization, which refers to the “complete removal or destruction of all viable microorganisms,” and disinfection, which is described as “the use of physical processes or chemical agents to destroy vegetative pathogens but not bacterial endospores” (Cowan & Smith, 2017, p. 287).

BIOS 256 Week 8 Discussion Looking Ahead

Furthermore, it was enlightening to study the various pathogens and their effects on our body systems. Understanding these concepts will be invaluable in our future studies of pathophysiology, where we will examine the processes that impact our health conditions. This knowledge will also be beneficial in healthcare settings, as we will encounter patients exhibiting symptoms of various infections and diseases. With this background, we will be better equipped to identify diseases, determine the pathogens responsible, and provide appropriate treatments.

References

Cowan, M. K., & Smith, H. (2017). Microbiology: A System Approach (5th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.