MLT 235 - Hematology Practicum

This course provides students the opportunity to rotate through the hematology department where they will perform analytical testing on blood and other body fluids. Students will perform quality control, calibration, preventative maintenance, and corrective action in the hematology department. Classroom knowledge will be directly applied to the clinical setting.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of MLT 133 Erythrocyte Hematology  and MLT 234 Leukocyte Hematology/Coagulation  
Student Learning Outcomes and Objectives:
Student Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the preanalytic, analytic, and postanalytic phases of testing in hematology.
2. Collect and process biological specimens and perform hematology tests on blood and other body fluids.
3. Monitor and evaluate quality control, recognize results discrepancies, and take appropriate corrective actions.
4. Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on laboratory equipment or refer to proper sources for repairs.
5. Work collaboratively with laboratory and healthcare personnel while maintaining respect for their roles and patient care.
6. Relate laboratory findings to common disease processes.

Hematology Rotation Student Clinical Objectives:                      

1. Perform and evaluate quality control (QC) for all hematology procedures.  Demonstrate proper corrective actions needed if QC values are outside established limits.
2. Operate each hematology and coagulation instrument according to laboratory   procedure to obtain accurate QC and patient results.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the daily maintenance routines for each piece of hematology and coagulation instrumentation.
4. Explain the functions of and the blood parameters provided by each hematology and coagulation instrument.  Recognize when values are outside the linearity of each instrument.
5. Describe the reagents used on each instrument and their functions.
6. State the formulas and normal ranges and calculate the MCV, MCH, and MCHC.
7. Perform a differential on a Wright’s-stained blood smear, correctly identifying all normal and abnormal cells and morphology.  Recognize possible pathological relationships of the abnormal cell types.
8. Evaluate cell histograms or scattergrams (if present at your clinical site) and predict pathophysiological causes of any abnormality.
9. Perform a body fluid manual cell count.
10. Perform and explain the principle of an erythrocyte sedimentation rate.  Evaluate the results and explain the factors that might interfere with an accurate result.
11. Stain and count reticulocytes.  State the normal values and explain the formula used to correct the reticulocyte count for hematocrit.
12. Perform and calculate a manual WBC count and Platelet count.
13. Perform and read a spun hematocrit.
14. Perform a seminal fluid analysis.
15. Perform, list the reagents used, and evaluate the results of the following coagulation tests: PT, APTT, Thrombin time, Fibrinogen concentration, FDP’s
16. Perform a bleeding time test and explain the pathophysiological causes of a prolonged result.

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.