UK National Standard Methods – a free learning tool for microbiologists and virologists
National Standard Methods (NSMs) and are used widely throughout diagnostic microbiology and virology laboratories in both the UK and abroad. Each document is scrutinised when drafted by undergoing an open consultation and is also presented with comments received to National Standard Methods Working Group members at meetings. These working groups consist of biomedical scientists, clinical scientists, consultants and representatives from various organisations, e.g. Association of Medical Microbiologists, all of whom make valuable contributions to the documents. In addition each document is reviewed every three years when any relevant information is incorporated, the references are assessed for suitability and a horizon scan for new literature is carried out. All amendments are again scrutinised by over 1400 password holders and the working group members.
Each NSM not only contains information regarding the gold standard for methodology but also has a detailed introduction that provides the reader with knowledge regarding the infection, organism and origins. These documents are a valuable resource for clinical scientists, biomedical scientists and specialist registrars when preparing for exams and assessments. The documents may also be used as a teaching tool by critically reviewed during tutorials. We therefore believe that these documents will serve a dual purpose for your students. The NSMs are available for free via the HPA Standards website. A free password is required to access the documents and can be obtained by contacting the HPA Standards Unit at standards@hpa.org.uk.
Tags: Biology, diagnosis, Education, Health, Medicine, Microbiology, Science, Virology
