Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician Program Outline

 

Course Description:

Introduction to Clinical Lab will familiarizes students with the clinical laboratory.  Some of the topics covered are: the CSMLS and MLPAO, the Standards of Practice for MLA/T’s, and the government policies that must be adhered to for a medical laboratory to maintain its license. Students are introduced to the various departments in a medical laboratory, the kinds of tests done in each department, and the reasons patients have lab tests performed. Included is the use of the 24 hour clock, the laboratory test directory and common abbreviations for MLA/T’s and associated professional associations.

The Structure and Function/Introduction to Disease module introduces students to the levels of organization of the human body from atoms to tissue, as well as the fourteen body systems (per MLPAO) and their associated functions. Anatomical terminology, body planes and regions, the major body cavities, are described along with the broad classifications of disease. Homeostasis and the maintenance of a healthy balanced state are discussed along with the reference ranges and critical values of test results associated with the determination of normal vs. disease. 

 

Course Description:

This course begins with an explanation of clinical chemistry; organ profiles and their associated tests are covered and sample reference ranges are described. Students are then introduced to atoms, molecules, compounds as well as states of matter, acids, bases, salts, electrolytes, the pH scale and buffers. Details of organic compounds, metabolism and how the body produces energy are also included.

 

Course Description:

In this course students are introduced to the medical word roots, prefixes and suffixes used in different medical settings. Through textbook review, practice exercises and PowerPoint assisted lectures they learn to identify, spell, form and define commonly used medical terms and abbreviations.

 

Course Description:

This course will introduce the student to the concept of safety in the laboratory environment for patients, coworkers and the medical laboratory assistant/technician. Students will develop an awareness and understanding of federal and provincial legislation, regulations and guidelines related to safety in the laboratory; and complete WHMIS training. Students will also gain hands on experience related to the safety policies and procedures associated with the ACA laboratory.

 

Course Description:

This course introduces students to the various equipment and reagents used in a medical laboratory including; glassware, plastic, balances, centrifuges, water baths, hot plates, incubators and autoclaves. The appropriate use, care, handling, storage, and maintenance of common laboratory equipment are covered along with the proper use of relevant safety equipment. Students also gain practical experience using the various pieces of lab equipment in the ACA laboratory.

 

Course Description:

This course gives students the opportunity to develop good working knowledge of the various laboratory requisitions used for ordering lab tests.  The OHIP program, billing procedures and examples of the codes doctors and laboratories use are introduced along with confidentiality, PHIPA, PIPEDA, and the importance of accurate medical record keeping. The course also covers the patient health history, booking appointments, and the emergency codes used in hospital as well as reporting and receiving laboratory test results, and appropriate telephone communications are also covered. 

 

Course Description:

Upon successful completion of this course the students should have a good working knowledge of the basics of phlebotomy, how to properly identify and approach patients of all ages, and the characteristics of a good phlebotomist. The various needle sizes, different anticoagulants, the proper order of draw and the various types of skin antiseptics are covered and students perform phlebotomy on artificial arms to practice technique and gain confidence prior to moving on to real arm draws.

Students are expected to pay careful attention to safety precautions while minimizing patient stress during the procedure. Students will also learn how to properly perform capillary punctures and select the appropriate length of lancets.  They will continue to use the knowledge gained in safety and learn how to properly label, separate and transport and dispose of lab samples and will gain experience in managing the common problems associated with phlebotomy. The differences between plasma, serum, whole blood, buffy coat and the various types of specimens (random, timed, multiple) and the corresponding laboratory departments, are covered. Students also learn about the importance of collecting samples in recovery rooms, operating rooms, various isolation rooms and samples that are at risk for HIV or hepatitis.

 

Course Description:

The anatomy and physiology of the heart are explored and the devices that monitor the heart are examined. Students will learn the theory and procedures involved in performing an Electrocardiogram and 24-hour Holter Monitor. They will perform proper electrode placements and lead hook ups and identify and correct any technical errors that may affect the ability of the cardiologist to accurately interpret the ECG and diagnose the patient's condition. They will also learn how to deal with patients in unusual circumstances such as amputees and those who cannot lie down

 

Course Description:

The anatomy and physiology of circulatory system; arteries, veins and capillaries; disorders of circulation are discussed; as well as taking and understanding vital signs.

 

Course Description:

Students are provided a review of all course material to date. The term 1 exam will examine the knowledge and expertise of each student in the Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician program. The exam covers the different courses of the term and provides a measurement of how well the students have integrated the material.

 

Course Description:

This course introduces the basics of Laboratory Math Including: BEDMAS, Significant Figures, International System of Units and the metric system, scientific notation, temperature, height & weight conversions. Students learn how to calculate and make working solutions, ratios and dilutions. The quality control component covers the importance of quality assurance, accuracy and precision and the use of quality control procedures and charts.

 

Course Description:

The Cells, Cytology and Anatomic Pathology course discusses the anatomy and physiology of cells and tissues. The student will learn about cellular transport and reproduction; passive and active cell transport; mitosis; meiosis. The difference types of tissues and the differences between cancerous and non-cancerous growths are examined as an entrance point into the study of Cytology. Students will learn to identify sample types, the corresponding test(s) and the appropriate testing department.

The laboratory procedures in cytology and anatomic pathology are discussed. Students will be able to describe the safe reception, processing, staining and cover slipping for cytology and histology specimens. The sample types generally submitted are covered and how to preserve them prior to testing. In addition, students will learn the staining procedures used to colour tissue for microscopic examination.
 

Course Description:

This course provides students with theoretical and practical knowledge in the areas of hematology and blood banking. The various components of human blood, their formation, function and associated disorders are covered along with the processes of coagulation/hemostasis. Blood groups, transfusion, Canadian Blood Services and the requirements for blood donation in Canada are also included. Theory and practical sessions address the techniques and common laboratory tests involved in the diagnosis of blood disorders

 

Course Description:

This course introduces students to the anatomy and physiology of the Lymphatic system and its role in the immune system. Students will learn about the different branches of the immune system and how it functions to protect from disease. Understanding of the different immune molecules, cells and interactions are discussed as well as what happens when there are disruptions to normal immune function. In the Immunology component of the course the students are introduced to various types of immune/serological tests, the requirements for the collection of samples and how they are handled.

 

Course Description:

This course introduces students to the anatomy and physiology of the digestive system. Carbohydrate, protein and lipid digestion are covered along with the common disorders that affect this body system and the laboratory tests used in their diagnosis. Students learn how to schedule patients, provide specimen collection instructions where applicable, prepare patients for various tests of digestive system function and collect any required blood samples.

 

Course Description:

In this course students will gain knowledge about the anatomy and physiology of the urinary system, including information about disorders and the laboratory tests associated with diagnosing disorders, which includes blood and urine tests. Students will gain hands on experience with the collection of samples and patient instructions for these laboratory tests including 24-hour urine tests and the additives. The details of urinalysis testing are explored in depth and the students will gain extensive experience performing urinalysis testing in the laboratory.

 

Course Description:

This course explores a variety of different microbiological organisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and protozoa. Students will gain knowledge about different samples and how they are collected for microbial studies, specimen incubation and inoculation, using and preparing common media (various agars, etc.) as well as understanding uses and applications of various stains and antibiotic testing. Students will have the opportunity to perform streak plating, prepare smears and perform gram staining protocols.

 

Course Description:

This course covers the structure and function of the respiratory system; including the stages of respiration, its regulation, and the various disorders associated with this system. Students will be introduced to the testing principles and procedures involved in the screening and diagnosis of respiratory conditions, with the focus on Pulmonary Function Testing, in particular, Spirometry. 

 

Course Description:

This course introduces students to the anatomy and physiology of the Nervous and Endocrine systems. The Nervous system component allows students to become familiar with the various cells, organs and the role of neurotransmitters involved in the nerve response. Included is the different systems (CNS, PNS and ANS) and the effects these have on the other body systems. Students will also be introduced to different disorders and dysfunctions of the nervous system.

The Endocrine system introduces students to the organs and the various hormones that are produced, including the function of the hormone regulation in the body. Students gain an understanding of the different control systems that are in place including positive and negative feedback. Dysfunctions of the endocrine system is also covered, with close attention to the testing for these disorders. Students learn the theory and practical skills that are required for testing including patient preparation information, sample collection instructions and sample handling criteria for blood and urine tests. 

 

Course Description:

This course introduces students to the basic anatomy and physiology of the male and female reproductive systems, including conception, pregnancy, and some basic concepts of mendelian genetics. Students will learn about the various hormones that control both systems and what occurs if hormonal levels are unbalanced or interrupted. Abnormal conditions including infertility and high-risk pregnancy and discussed, along with appropriate collection protocols for the most common laboratory tests. In the Genetics component of the course students will learn about the human genome, cell division inheritance, chromosomal abnormalities and how to use a simple Punnett square to determine outcomes of various genetic combinations.

 

Course Description:

Students are provided a review of all course material to date. The term 2 exam will examine the knowledge and expertise of each student in the Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician program. The exam covers the different courses of the term and provides a measurement of how well the students have integrated the material.

 

Course Description:

Students are provided a review of all course material in the program. The final exam will examine the knowledge and expertise of each student in the Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician program. The exam covers the different courses of the term and provides a measurement of how well the students have integrated the material.

 

Course Description:

The purpose of the practicum is to allow students to continue to practice their skills in an actual work setting. They will learn first-hand how to deal with real-life situations and gain experience within the field. By training within the clinical setting, students will gain an understanding of how to react or act proactively within different situations. They will gain knowledge and practical experience to help develop their understanding of employer expectations. Students will be provided the opportunity to become proficient at specimen handling and be able to function as a member of a laboratory team.

The placement will be completed in clinical settings, public laboratories, and private laboratories outside of the college. The Experiential Learning Simulation will be completed on campus.

WORKPLACE COURSES

Course Description:

Health Care Practitioner Level CPR and First Aid provides training for those working in the healthcare field or students in related education programs.

 

Course Description:

Emphasis is placed on thinking about success from day one and developing the non-technical skills to enhance personal, academic and career success. Topics include: goal setting, time management, learning styles, memory techniques, note taking and test writing techniques.

 

Course Description:

• Learn the basics of the Windows operating system, computer hardware, and software
• Practice effective file management
• Explore various Internet search techniques
• Obtain touch typing skills with a goal of 45 words per minute before graduation
• Create, edit, and print Microsoft Word letters and reports
• Format documents and control the page appearance
• Create, modify, and print Microsoft Excel workbooks
• Perform calculations using formulas and functions
• Apply formatting to a worksheet

 

Course Description:

This module takes the students through the entire job search process including:

• Where and how to look for a job
• Effective resume preparation
• Creating a cover letter tailored to the position
• Interview preparation
• Job search management
• Self-confidence and self-esteem building
• Mock interviews 
• Follow up after the interview