MDLB 1611 - Pre-Analytical Procedures for Histopathology

Course Description

This course is designed for the working Medical Laboratory Assistant and the basic concepts of pre-analytical histopathology including: anatomic pathology / histology specimens, preparation for cutting, processing and accessioning. It also includes a cytology component covering specimen preparation, processing and accessioning.

Learning outcomes

• Describe the role of the histopathology laboratory in patient care.
• Describe the forms of investigation offered by the histopathology laboratory.
• Describe the types and sources of specimens submitted to the histopathology laboratory.
• Describe and perform fixations.
• Describe and perform identification of specimens.
• Describe and perform tissue processing.
• Describe and prepare slides, storage systems and perform filing.
• Describe and perform prepatory techniques in cytology.
• Describe and perfom all routine practices necessary to ensure a safe working environment.

Course topics

• Module A: Roles of the Histopathology Laboratory and its Staff in Patient Care
• Module B: Service and Types of Routine Investigation Offered by the Histopathology Laboratory
• Module C: Other Forms of Investigation Offered by the Histopathology Laboratory
• Module D: Types and Sources of Specimens Submitted to the Histopathology Laboratory
• Module E: Fixation and Fixatives
• Module F: Identification of Specimens for Histopathological Examination
• Module G: Tissue Processing and Tissue Processors
• Module H: Slides, Storage Systems and Filing
• Module I: Describe Preparatory Techniques in Cytology

Required text and materials

There is no required textbook for this course. 

Assessments

In order to successfully complete this course, students must obtain at least 50% on the mandatory final exam and 50% overall.

Students applying this course towards any TRU Health Care program may be required to obtain a minimum 60% on the course overall to meet program requirements.

Successful completion of the practicum to the standards specified in the Evaluation of Competencies booklet is also required.

Prerequisites

• Admission to the Medical Laboratory Assistant program
• Proof graduation from a recognized Medical Laboratory Assistant program
• Current employment in a clinical lab
• A letter from a qualified employer stating they are willing to support the training required for this course