Objectives
As a Medical Laboratory Assistant (MLA) or Technical Assistant (TA), you perform a vital role within the medical laboratory team, working closely with the public and performing the required manual skills. In this program, you learn how to collect specimens from patients, and how to initially process and prepare them for analysis. You will be trained how to perform electrocardiograms (ECG’s) and a variety of basic lab procedures. Data entry, clerical duties, and reception services are also a part of this program. The Medical Laboratory Assistant Program prepares you for immediate employment in the health care field. Taught by industry professionals, this hands-on program has practicum placements in both hospital and community laboratories. As you train to become a valued member of the lab team, you will meet the standards set out by the BC Society of Laboratory Science (BCSLS).
Course description
Introduction to Phlebotomy (MEDL 401V) • 16 hrs (approx)
This course is the theory component of the collection of blood specimens by venipuncture and skin puncture. It also includes the introduction to the program and roles and responsibilities of MLA’s.
Non-Blood Collection Theory (MEDL 402V) • 14 hrs (approx)
This course covers the remainder of specimens collected or handled by MLA’s including urine, stool, sputum, semen, etc. It covers directions to patients, aliquoting, processing and handling of these specimens. Test library, terms and conditions, and terms and measurements are covered.
Lab Safety Theory (MEDL 403V) • 13 hrs (approx)
This course includes the terms associated with control of microbiological populations; properties of microbes in the workplace; mechanisms of disease transmission; and methods of protection against and prevention of diseases (infection control).
Workplace Communication (MEDL 405V) • 24 hrs (approx)
This course covers how to use effective communication skills with patients and members of the health care team including written communication, and an overview of conflict resolution. It also discusses medicolegal and ethical terms; requirements for documentation; knowledge of patients’ rights; requirements for finding of liability; and application of knowledge to situations which may occur in the health care setting.
Specimen Handling (MEDL 406V) • 40 hrs (approx)
This course covers the preparation of specimens in the areas of hematology, chemistry, immunohematology, microbiology, cytology and histology.
Anatomy & Physiology (MEDL 407V) • 28 hrs (approx)
This course provides an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the human body with a major focus on the major body systems and related disorders and diagnostic tests. These would include the cardiovascular, lymphatic/immune, endocrine, reproductive, urinary, respiratory and digestive systems.
Electrocardiology (MEDL 408V) • 58 hrs (approx)
This course introduces the anatomy and physiology of the heart and electrical conduction system of the heart. It teaches the theory, knowledge and skills necessary to conduct select tests and procedures.
Practical Skills (MEDL 409V) • 155 hrs (approx)
This course, delivered on Saturdays in the Biology lab and on site (hospital and private labs), is the application of theory learned in classroom sessions.
Practicum (MEDL 410V) • 143 hrs (approx)
The Practicum component provides an opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge acquired during the program. It gives students first-hand experience in both private and public sector labs.
