Respiratory Case Study: Possible Pertussis Infection (Online CE Course)

(based on 256 customer ratings)

Author: Leah Ames, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM
Reviewer: Laurie Bjerklie, MA, MLS(ASCP)CM and Joshua J. Cannon, MS, MLS(ASCP)CMSHCM

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This course describes the clinical symptoms of Bordetella pertussis infection. Proper specimen collection and transport for diagnosis of B. pertussis along with laboratory testing procedures that aid in its diagnosis are presented. Advantages and disadvantages for each testing procedure including culture, nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), direct fluorescent antibody staining, and serology are discussed. Treatment options for pertussis infection including available vaccines are presented in this course.

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Continuing Education Credits

P.A.C.E.® Contact Hours (acceptable for AMT, ASCP, and state recertification): 1 hour(s)
Approved through 11/30/2026
Florida Board of Clinical Laboratory Personnel Credit Hours - General (Molecular Pathology): 1 hour(s)
Approved through 11/30/2026

Objectives

  • Identify the clinical symptoms of Bordetella pertussis infection.
  • Describe proper specimen collection and transport for diagnosis of B. pertussis.
  • Identify laboratory testing procedures that aid in the diagnosis of B. pertussis.
  • Discuss advantages and disadvantages for each testing procedure including culture, nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), direct fluorescent antibody staining, and serology.
  • Explain the principles of NAAT testing for B. pertussis.
  • Discuss treatment options for pertussis infection.
  • Identify available vaccines that can help to prevent infection with B. pertussis.

Customer Ratings

(based on 256 customer ratings)

Course Outline

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Additional Information

Level of instruction: Intermediate
Intended Audience: Medical laboratory scientists, medical laboratory technicians, laboratory supervisors, and laboratory managers. This course is also appropriate for MLS and MLT students and pathology residents.
Author information: Leah Ames, MS, MLS(ASCP)CM is a medical technologist in the Molecular Diagnostics department at Alverno Clinical Laboratories. She also serves as adjunct faculty for molecular diagnostics in the CLS program at Northern Illinois University and is an instructor of molecular diagnostics for Franciscan St. Margaret Health School of Medical Technology. Leah holds an M.S. degree in Clinical Laboratory Science from Michigan State University and a B.S. in Molecular and Integrative Physiology from the University of Illinois.
Reviewer information:
Laurie Bjerklie, MA, MLS(ASCP)CM is currently an Education Developer for MediaLab and LabCE. She earned a B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of North Dakota and an M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction from Saint Xavier University. She has over 15 years of experience in higher education and has held program director and faculty positions in both MLT and MLS programs.
Joshua J. Cannon, MS, MLS(ASCP)CMSHCM received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, PA. He holds Medical Laboratory Scientist and Specialist in Hematology certifications through the ASCP Board of Certification. He was a professor at Thomas Jefferson University for seven years before transitioning into his current role as Education Developer at MediaLab. His areas of expertise and professional passions include clinical hematology and interprofessional education. 

How to Subscribe
MLS & MLT Comprehensive CE Package
Includes 184 CE courses, most popular
$109Add to cart
Pick Your Courses
Up to 8 CE hours
$55Add to cart
Individual course$25Add to cart
B.pertusis gram stain.
Image courtesy of www.phil.cdc.gov


DFA small


Pertussis cases 1940 to 2012


Pertussis Disease Progression.
Image courtesy of www.cdc.gov