Integrative Medical Laboratory Studies 1 MLSC 1218

Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:

• Apply the principles of Standard Precautions, hygiene and infection control practices, and use personal protective equipment.
• Utilize laboratory safety devices and personal protective equipment correctly (e.g. biological safety cabinets, fume hoods, laminar flow cabinets, safety pipetting devices, safety containers and carriers, safety showers, eye washes) and apply ergonomic principles to minimize risk.
• Identify, store, handle and dispose of hazardous material according to existing legislation.
• Demonstrate an understanding of sterilization and decontamination procedures including their specific uses and limitations.
• Respond appropriately to laboratory safety incidents (e.g. fire, chemical exposure, spills, personal injury) and perform documentation and investigation of the event.
• Follow and interpret information as written in Standard Operating Procedures. Perform documentation consistent with good laboratory practice.
• Define and use common terminology related to medical laboratory.​
• Explain the major roles of each of the main testing disciplines –Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Clinical Microbiology, Transfusion Science, Anatomical Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics.
• Describe the role of the Laboratory Information System (LIS) in documenting and tracking patient information and test ordering/resulting.
• Describe data entry, documentation and retention procedures relevant to laboratory testing, and specimen management. Consult work lists and logs to organize workload and ensure completion of ordered analyses.
• Describe and perform quantitative and qualitative laboratory analyses utilizing staining procedures, light measurement systems.
• Perform basic laboratory math to determine dilutions and concentrations.
• Perform accurate and precise dilutions and reagent preparation using the appropriate equipment and supply (e.g. pipettes, water grade, glassware).
• Perform a variety of clinical microscopy techniques appropriate for the specimen and analysis required.
• Use and maintain basic clinical laboratory instruments and equipment such as centrifuges, light microscopes, and spectrophotometers, in a safe, accurate and precise manner.
• Prepare and prioritize a representative cross-section of common specimens that arrive in the laboratory for testing in an efficient manner. Adhere to storage and handling protocols.
• Describe how calibrators, standards and quality control materials are used in the generation and validation of laboratory results. Identify potential sources of analytical error or limitation; take appropriate action.
• Perform quality control activities and analyze resultant data using established guidelines, keep accurate records and report errors requiring further action. Discuss the relative accuracy and reproducibility of lab results.
• Integrate and apply knowledge to evaluate situations, and create or employ problem solving strategies, and reflect on practice.
• Develop situational awareness and self-confidence in the laboratory to safely organize and prioritize lab work.
• Develop professional behaviours consistent with the guidelines described by the BCIT Medical Laboratory Science Program.
• Perform lab work in a safe and ethical manner, respecting safety of patients, fellow students, laboratory staff, the public, and themselves.

Effective as of Fall 2024