Rod-shaped bacteria are called?

Appeared in: AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

Explanation

Bacteria are classified based on their shape, a primary characteristic used in microbiology.
The term 'Bacillus' (plural: bacilli) specifically refers to bacteria that are rod-shaped.
Examples of bacilli include Bacillus anthracis (causes anthrax) and Escherichia coli.

Option A: 'Cocci' are bacteria that are spherical or oval in shape, not rod-shaped.
Option B: 'Clusters' describe an arrangement or grouping of bacterial cells, such as the grape-like clusters of Staphylococcus, not the shape of an individual bacterium.
Option D: 'Spirochetes' are a group of bacteria characterized by their long, flexible, spiral or corkscrew-like shape.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Bacterial morphology and classification as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Identifying bacterial shape (morphology) via microscopy, usually after a Gram stain, is one of the first and most fundamental steps in identifying a bacterial pathogen causing an infection.
This initial identification helps clinicians make a presumptive diagnosis and choose an appropriate initial (empirical) antibiotic while waiting for more definitive culture results.
What if? If a Gram stain of a wound sample revealed Gram-positive cocci in clusters, the nurse would anticipate an infection with Staphylococcus and expect orders for antibiotics effective against it, rather than those for rod-shaped bacteria.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question from microbiology.
The question asks for the specific term for 'rod-shaped' bacteria.
Recall the basic classifications of bacteria based on their morphology (shape).
Evaluate each option: 'Cocci' are spheres, 'Clusters' is an arrangement, 'Bacillus' means rod, and 'Spirochetes' are spirals.
Select the term that directly matches the definition of 'rod-shaped'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Microbiology Applied AnjuDhir 3e Part 1 p. 54-56

E6 Microbiology Essentials Sastry 4e Part 1 p. 35-37

Practise the full AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.