Stage 1 of 2
Training to Part I
At least 24 months
Supervised training in accredited microbiology laboratories, to the Part I examination.
Competencies
Using a microscope well enough to troubleshoot it, to recognise an artefact or a staining problem, and to talk to the scientific staff about both
Examining cultures, recognising contaminants, interpreting antimicrobial susceptibility results, and writing the report that follows
Serological and molecular techniques, and the range of organisms a tertiary hospital sends: bacteriology, mycology, virology and parasitology
Applying laboratory information to clinical care, and clinical information to keeping the laboratory affordable
Advising as part of the infection control team, and holding your own in microbiology review meetings and on clinical rounds
Running a laboratory, including budgeting, financial probity, safety and human resources
Examinations
Basic Pathological Sciences examination
Usually before or during the first year, a 2.5 hour paper of 100 multiple choice questions
- Every trainee takes it or is exempted, and joint trainees are no longer automatically exempt
- A pass or exemption is needed before Part II
- Applications to sit the examinations close 28 February each year, and late applications are not accepted
Microbiology Part I
After 24 months of laboratory training, sat during a year of laboratory training, the papers and practical first and the oral after
Projects
Minor project
Can be started during Part I preparation, after 6 months of microbiology