MLT 262 - Immunohematology Practicum

This course provides students with hands-on experience through rotations in the blood bank and immunology departments of a clinical laboratory. Students will practice performing testing, quality control, calibration, preventive maintenance, and corrective actions. CLIA-waived and non-waived testing are conducted in the immunology department. Both manual and automated blood bank testing techniques will be covered. Classroom knowledge is directly applied in the clinical practicum setting.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of MLT 171 Immunology & Serology  and MLT 260 Immunohematology  
Student Learning Outcomes and Objectives:
Student Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the preanalytic, analytic, and postanalytic phases of testing in blood bank and immunology.
2. Perform compatibility testing for transfusion, including ABO/Rh typing, antibody screening, and blood product selection.
3. Analyze blood bank results using critical thinking skills and troubleshoot when necessary.
4. Perform quality control, calibration, preventive maintenance, and corrective action on automated blood bank analyzers (if applicable).
5. Maintain accurate records and reports.
6. Apply safe techniques in the handling and disposal of infectious materials.
7. Exhibit professional conduct in all interactions.

Clinical Rotation Objectives

Immunology/Immunohematology Rotation

1. Demonstrate correct collection, labeling, and storage techniques for blood specimens used in blood bank/immunology testing and take necessary actions if specimens are deemed unacceptable.
2. Follow laboratory policies for record-keeping and reporting, including reading and grading agglutination reactions and hemolysis.
3. Perform antiglobulin testing (direct and indirect).
4. Interpret antibody reactions in a reagent red blood cell panel.
5. Identify compatible and incompatible crossmatch reactions and resolve incompatibilities.
6. Select appropriate blood products (group-specific and non-group-specific).
7. List indications and contraindications for transfusion of various blood components.
8. Discuss preparation, use, labeling, storage temperature, and shelf life for various blood components, such as whole blood, red blood cells, platelets, cryoprecipitate, and others.
9. Recognize signs and symptoms of transfusion reactions and outline steps to take when a transfusion reaction is suspected.
10. Perform antenatal and postnatal tests for hemolytic disease of the newborn.
11. Demonstrate procedures for receiving and shipping blood and blood components, and preparing these components for infusion.
12. Perform daily, weekly, and quarterly quality control on reagents, as well as routine maintenance on blood bank equipment.
13. Perform immunology and serology assays using various techniques.
14. Manage quality control for procedures and instruments in immunohematology/immunology and know what corrective actions to take when limits are exceeded.

Affective Clinical Objectives

1. Attendance and Punctuality:
   • Arrive on time and begin work promptly.
   • Inform the instructor when leaving the area and stay late when necessary.
   • Limit lunch/coffee breaks to allotted time.
2. Cooperation with Personnel:
   • Maintain a pleasant, professional attitude.
   • Work well in a teacher/student setting.
   • Respect and understand cultural diversity.
   • Keep the work area clean, neat, and organized.
   • Use reagents and supplies efficiently.
3. Professionalism and Ethical Responsibility:
   • Be alert, attentive, and detail-oriented.
   • Complete required assignments and seek additional work when needed.
   • Show empathy and respect for patients of all ages and cultural backgrounds.
   • Take appropriate actions to correct errors or resolve conflicts.
   • Maintain professional composure and appearance.
   • Handle specimens and materials accurately.
4. Utilizing Constructive Criticism:
   • Respond positively to suggestions and constructive feedback.
   • Acknowledge mistakes and take steps to avoid future errors.
5. Adaptability:
   • Ask relevant questions and follow written procedures.
   • Display attention to detail and confidence after instruction.
   • Handle equipment properly and perform maintenance as needed.
   • Adhere to universal precautions and lab safety regulations.