Microbiologist how-to

How to Investigate Contamination

Investigations prevent repeats.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Investigations prevent repeats. In short: identify; review; check, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Identify the organism.

  2. Review the process.

  3. Check environmental data.

  4. Find the source.

  5. Fix the root cause.

  6. Document.

Safety reminders for microbiologists

  • Follow biosafety level procedures
  • Wear PPE
  • Autoclave waste
  • Report exposures

Pathogen · Culture · Gram stain · CFU · Sterility test · Endotoxin: see the full microbiologist glossary.

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