Procedures for collection, handling, and pre-analytical processing of clinical laboratory specimens.
Course details
This course covers the essential procedures for collecting, handling, and preparing clinical laboratory specimens before they reach the analytical instruments. You will learn how to maintain specimen integrity from the moment of collection through to processing, ensuring accurate test results.
You will practice patient identification, venipuncture, and capillary puncture techniques. The course also covers the selection of correct collection tubes, the order of draw, and the proper methods for centrifugation and aliquoting. You will learn to identify and report common pre-analytical errors, such as hemolysis, clotting, and improper storage, in the laboratory information system.
Who takes this course
This course is an elective for students in the Medical Laboratory Technology program. It is also open to Medical Radiation Technology students who need laboratory science credit.
Credits: 1.5 · Hours: 30
Prerequisites
None
Learning outcomes
- Identify the requirements for proper patient identification before specimen collection.
- Demonstrate correct techniques for venipuncture and capillary puncture.
- Select the appropriate collection tubes and additives for specific tests.
- Process specimens for centrifugation and aliquoting without compromising integrity.
- Document specimen handling steps in the laboratory information system.
- Identify and report pre-analytical errors such as hemolysis or clots.
Evaluation
| Component | Weight (%) |
| Practical skills assessment (venipuncture and processing) | 40 |
| Mid-term examination | 30 |
| Final examination | 30 |