Welcome to the course

Welcome to this course on non-fermenting gram negative bacteria, covering their defining features and role in antimicrobial resistance. This course has been developed by experts in microbiology.

Over the next two weeks, we will introduce some common species of non-fermenting gram negative bacteria, their epidemiology and the mechanisms of resistance used in this group of bacteria. This course will explore antimicrobial resistance, linking it to the challenges of non-fermenters. We will also examine the importance of infection prevention and control strategies in dealing with these bacteria, as well as their diagnosis and treatment. Through patient case studies, we will explore some of the different infections these bacteria can cause.

In this first week we will define non-fermenting bacteria and the topics which will be covered within it. We define antimicrobial resistance and the challenges this group of bacteria present to resistance. By the end of this week, you will gain an understanding of:

• The defining metabolic characteristics of non-fermenting bacteria
• The common species of non-fermenting bacteria, their epidemiology and their mechanisms of resistance
• The challenges that non-fermenters present with regards to the ever-growing issue of antimicrobial resistance

A glossary of key terms for this course can be found in the downloads section below.

Using FutureLearn courses

If you are new to FutureLearn courses, click here for a guide on how to engage with the course. Learners are encouraged to introduce themselves and to participate in course discussions and quizzes. Any comments left by users can be viewed by all learners. We encourage you to interact with other learners by ‘liking’ and replying to their comments.

Learners can also upgrade to have:

• Unlimited access to the course: Go at your own pace with unlimited access to the course for as long as it exists on FutureLearn.
• A Certificate of Achievement: To help you demonstrate your learning we’ll send you a Certificate of Achievement when you become eligible – this can go towards CPD points.

Before we begin, we would like to remind you of FutureLearn’s Code of Conduct which should be considered before participating in the discussions throughout this course.

This course has been approved by The Royal College of Pathologists at a level of 4 credits. The RCPath CPD approval process is in line with the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges standards and criteria for CPD activities framework guidance. Reciprocity has been agreed between colleges/faculties for all approved activities.

Please note that all who submit their details to the RCP to claim CPD, agree that FutureLearn may need to share their data, including their progress on the course, with RCP for the purposes of auditing / offering CPD.

Enjoy

We hope you find this course useful and enjoy learning about non-fermenters! We value your input and encourage you to let us know your opinions in the comments as you go along.