Each chapter closes with Critical Thinking Questions (listed below) as a review of chapter material that focuses on the role of the medical assistant.

1. Gram's stain is a procedure performed to stain bacteria for microscopic examination. What are the reagents used to perform this test? Identify the staining characteristics of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms.

2. What are the basic steps for diagnosing and treating infections?

3. Why are cotton-tipped swabs no longer used as sterile specimen collection devices?