Program Requirements

ANAT106: APPLIED ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY

This course will assist the student to increase their foundational knowledge of the normal structures and functions of major organ systems. This course will also assist the student to identify the common pathologies of the various organ systems and familiarize the relevant tests utilized for proper diagnosis. In addition, the student will gain an appreciation for the physical and biochemical changes from early childhood to the senior years. CSMLS competency 2.01 and Medical Laboratory Professionals Association of Ontario (MLPAO) Standard of practice C.

MLAB-107 (Theory) and MLAB-105 (Lab): CLINICAL LABORATORY TECHNIQUES

This course will introduce the student to the concept of safety in the laboratory environment for patients, co-workers and medical laboratory assistant. This course will explore general safety measures, employee safety and occupational health and safety issues and will assist the students in meeting theory and practical requirements for CSMLS categories 1-8 and MLPAO Laboratory safety and Laboratory Equipment and Supplies competencies expected for entry level Laboratory Technicians/Assistants. Students are introduced to specimen handling, storage, shipping and disposal of biological hazards, blood borne pathogens in accordance with current government legislation and regulations and institutional policies. Emergency response plan is  reviewed and discussed. Students are provided with the theory and practical application of the use, care and maintenance of common laboratory equipment.

MLAB102: COMMUNICATION AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

This course will introduce students to the profession of Medical Laboratory Science. In addition to reviewing historical aspects, the student will learn about legislation governing the medical profession, scope of practice, confidentiality of information, rights of patients and ethical issues. Students will have in-depth understanding of their responsibility of their responsibility of their professional actions, on-going training and education, keeping abreast of technology and research and developing critical thinking and adaptability to changing and urgent situations addressing Category 7 Professional practice and category 8 Critical thinking. This course will also assist the student to develop effective interpersonal relationships with their peers, with patients and /or their families, and other health care professionals, by using the Collaborative Practice framework formulated by the CMLTO.

Personal and professional values, principles of communication, communication models, conflict, conflict resolution and group dynamics will all be explored.  A variety of communication skills will be introduced and applied to demonstrate the exchange of information between patients/families and health professionals, the use of effective verbal and written communication , and the ability to work effectively and collaboratively with colleagues and other health professional. The student will learn to recognize indicators of patient stress, initiate follow-up and participate and be change agents in an evolving and crisis environment. Category 5- Communication & Interaction competencies are addressed.

MLAB103: APPLIED CHEMISTRY FOR THE MEDICAL LABORATORY

The course will assist the student in developing knowledge of Chemistry as a basis to understand chemical compounds and enzymes. Students will learn basic chemistry and continue to explore more complex structures such as organic compounds and the functioning of enzymes. Students will also learn the proper use of laboratory equipment and to accurately prepare solutions using appropriate glassware. All of the above reflected in CSMLS category 1-,3- 7 and MLPAO competencies.

MLAB104: CLINICAL COMPUTER APPLICATIONS AND BASIC LABORATORY  MATHEMATICS

This course will assist the student to learn about a coherent system of measurement units vital to precise clinical laboratory analyses. Students will be introduced to statistical calculations and quality control methods. In addition, students will be able to perform mathematical calculations relating to the clinical laboratory techniques. Students will be able to develop computer literacy skills and beginning competency in data entry and laboratory information systems (LIS). All of the above are reflected in CSMLS competency 4.01 , 6.13 and 8.04. and MLPAO competencies.

COMM -170/171: COLLEGE COMMUNICATION 2
This course focuses on the refinement of reading and writing skills at the college. The course emphasizes clear, correct writing based on the process of composing, revising and editing. All written work in this course will be in response to assigned readings. The student will recognize and use a variety of patterns of organization, analyze audience, purpose and tone, and develop critical reading and thinking skills

Prerequisites:                       COMM-160/161
Co-requisites:                        none
Special requirements:         C grade

MLAB121: PRACTICAL HEMATOLOGY AND IMMUNOHEMATOLOGY

This course will assist the students in meeting theory and practical requirements for MLPAO standard of practice expected for entry level Laboratory Technician/Assistant. Students will be learn the theoretical and practical aspects of specimen collection, handling, testing, rejection criteria and storage of routine hematology and blood bank procedures. Students will learn the underlying principles, operation, run QC and care of the equipment found in the hematology. The main criteria established by the Canadian Blood Services for acceptance or deferral of blood donations will be reviewed. The learner will prepare peripheral blood film and examine them for proper staining. Students will be introduced to evidence based practice and participate in a project or research /study. The following CSMLS competencies 1.01-1.05, 2.12, 3.01-3.03 5-01, 5.02, 6.03, 6.12, 7.06, 8.04 , 8.05, 8.07 -8.08 will be covered.

MLAB122: PRACTICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND HISTOLOGY

This course will introduce the students to the major classes of microorganisms, with emphasis on bacteriology. This course will explore work safety, specimen processing ,various other  aspects of the microbiology laboratory and will assist the students in meeting the theory and practical requirements for CSMLS competencies categories 1, – 8 and MLPAO competency H and I  , expected for entry level laboratory technicians/Assistants. Students will be able to recognize the common media used in a microbiology laboratory including preparation, autoclaving and dispensing.  Students will learn to handle specimens using aseptic technique, to inoculate specimens using the proper media and incubation conditions. Students will also be able to perform smear preparation, common staining techniques and examine slides for proper staining. Students will also learn the theories and procedures related to the safe reception, processing, staining and cover slipping of Histology specimens.

MLAB123: SPECIMEN COLLECTION / PROCESSING AND BASIC ECG

This course will assist the students in meeting theory and practical requirements for CSMLS category competency 1-8 and MLPAO competencies expected for entry level Laboratory Technician/Assistance. Students will learn how to interact with clients, patients and colleagues and to use proper techniques when performing biological specimen procurement and handling with focus on the collection of blood, urine and fecal specimens. Students will learn how to apply routine practice when processing blood and biological specimens for the various tests. This course will provide students with opportunities to perform, ECGs and set-up Holter monitors.  An exciting aspect of this course is the focus on the theoretical knowledge and skills needed to interact with patients in the collection of specimens. Students are provided with lab exercises to reinforce lecture materials, with supervised practice of venous and capillary collection techniques. Each student agreed to be a patient subject in this course through signing a phlebotomy wavier form at the beginning of the course. Legal and ethical issues pertaining to specimen collection and processing will be explored and discussed. To pass this course students are required to obtain minimum of 25 venipunctures and 10 technically accurate electrocardiograms. Once the student has successfully completed this course, they are considered ready for Clinical placement. Students who are not successful in this course are not permitted to continue to semester three- Clinical Placement.

MLAB124: CLINICAL CHEMISTRY , URINALYSIS AND CYTOLOGY

This course will assist the student to understand the specimen requirements for all routine clinical chemistry tests.  This course will provide the student with the clinical laboratory practice to setup/load both automated, manual and POC instrumentation including QC samples for initial analysis.  The student will gain an understanding of the normal ranges for all routine clinical chemistry tests, recognize variant results and report relevant information. The above are reflected in Competency Categories 1-8 of the CSMLS and MLPAO competencies H. Students will also learn the theories and procedures related to the safe reception, processing, staining and cover slipping of Cytology specimens.

MLAB125: LAB ADMINISTRATION AND QUALITY MANAGEMENT

This course will introduce the students to the overall operations and complexity of laboratories in the private and public sector , which encompasses collection, receipt , prioritization, inventory maintenance, risk management, communication and transmission of information. (Category 3 (MLPAO) and CSMLS competency category 6. The student will aquire an in-dept understanding of the principles of quality patient care , the pillars thar constitute a quality management system and the laboratory accreditation process and requirements for Ontario laboratories. The students will learn to apply the quality system essential principles in their practice of phlebotomy, specimen handling, and processing safety practice, monitoring equipmentand supplies, communicating and delivering excellent client care. The practice of delivering quality patient care will be reinforced through documentation of indicators, reviews and revisions of standard operating procedures and risk management. Student will learn basic quality assurance principles to facilitate participation in problem solving, critical thinking  and workflow analysis. Category 8 (MLPAO) and competencies 8.01-8.06 (CSMLS)

MLAB150: CLINICAL INTERNSHIP

The clinical placement represents six weeks that will be spent in clinical laboratory, where the student continue to build on the theoretical knowledge and skills learned at Centennial College. Students will have the opportunity to develop CSMLS and or MLPAO competencies in the areas of phlebotomy, safe practices, professionalism, critical thinking and communication with other health care professionals as well as attaining competencies in microbiology, clinical chemistry, histology, hematology, transfusion science  within their professional scope of practice. Clinical placements can take place any six weeks between May- September for Fall semester students and any six weeks between October and April for Winter semester students. Learning opportunities occur on a variety of shifts and days of the week (including weekends, nights and evenings). Placements are allotted according to availability. All students attend simulation Microbiology before attending clinical placement. Students attend clinical placement in the GTA or anywhere in the province of Ontario. Students are responsible to find accommodation and cover the cost for their living expenses, transportation and food. Students are required to discuss weekly reflection with there preceptor manager or designate and write a (500-1000 words) end of clinical placement reflection of their  clinical experience.

Prerequisites:                 Semester 1 and 2 with minimum C grades

See the Experiential Learning Requirements section for information on work terms, field placements, clinical placements, or other required experiential learning components.

Medical Laboratory Technician Program Dress Code and General Presentation

The following dress code is required for students in the Medical Laboratory Technicians program. During clinical placement, the student must also adhere to the dress code of the facility.

Clothing: Students must be clean, neat and well groomed. Avoid wearing clothing that are overly revealing, which may represent a safety hazard or which may be offensive to others. Students must wear a full length lab coat during lab sessions. For phlebotomy training , students are required to wear scrubs.

Shoes: Shoes worn in the laboratory must be closed-toed and closed heeled. Clogs, Crocs or other types of shoes with no back or holes in the top are not allowed. Ballerina type slippers represent a safety hazard in the laboratory.

Hair: Hair must be clean and neat and not extraordinary colored. In the laboratory, hair must be tied back.

Head coverings: Students have the right to wear head coverings, such wigs, hijabs, and other head apparel that has religious significance. However, students are expected to follow infection control procedures/policies at the College and Clinical placement at all times.  Long head covering must be tucked securely inside the lab coat to prevent fire hazard, contamination by microorganisms on a microbiology plate, contamination by blood and/or body fluids.

Students are expected to look and act professional in the College and on Clinical Placement. Students should refrain from wearing baseball caps, scarves,hats, etc., unless it is of religious significance.

Long skirts: A long skirt may be worn. Suggested hem line at least 2-4 inches from the floor due to infection control implications.

Beards: Beard must keep clean and well groomed.

Personal Hygiene:  Students have the responsibility for their own personal hygiene. Because of the close contact between the client/patient and the MLA/T, personal cleanliness is essential.

Body Piercing/Tattoos: Visible body piercings and tattoos will be covered at all times in the clinical placement.

Nail Care: Fingernails must be kept clean and manicured. Artificial nails and nail jewelry are not recommended.

Program Identification Badge: Students must purchase a Medical Lab Technician program badge. Badges must be worn on the pocket or shoulder of the lab coat sleeve.

Perfumes/Fragrances: Students are to avoid using scented products (e.g., perfumes, colognes, after shave, body wash, hair spray etc.) as some people have sensitivities or allergies to scented products.

Program Completion Requirements

Successful completion of all previous program course requirements is required before students may continue in the subsequent semester of a program. Students may be subject to academic probation, academic suspension or otherwise denied re-admission and continuance in a specific program or major for academic reasons, such as failure to receive passing or minimum grade requirements in courses attempted (such as the Medical Laboratory Technician Program). Students who receive unsatisfactory grades in two or more courses will be placed on academic probation, or may require the approval of their Chair before being allowed to continue in the next semester or program segment. The Academic Appeal Application form is available from any Registrar’s Office.

• Students have a maximum of two years to complete the entire program. Students are encouraged to complete the program under one year.
• Students will be given two attempts in the program to achieve success. Re- admission will be based on available space.
• After a second failure , the student is encouraged to meet with a counselor to discuss alternate educational and career options.
• Extensions will not be granted for the program.

PROGRESSION

The following applies to students enrolled in all diploma and certificate programs with the exception of those enrolled in degrees, modified and traditional apprenticeship programs, and government sponsored programs (such as literacy and basic skills). Centennial endeavors, through academic advising and support, to help students by facilitating their educational success. The academic standing of each Centennial student is monitored during as well as at the end of each semester to support the full development of his or her academic potential. Any student not making satisfactory progress will be informed of her or his standing in the college. A student making unsatisfactory academic progress will receive academic advising from the program. Continuing unsatisfactory performance may require the student to be placed on conditional academic standing, probation, and suspension.

MLAB students who are at risk will meet with their professor, review their academic score(s) and receive a written evaluation feedback prior to the withdrawal deadlines specified in the calendar. The professor assist the student to set academic goals and encourage that the meet with the  Academic  Learning Strategist. At the end of each semester students who are successful in meeting the course requirements will move on.

A passing grade of minimum 60% in the theory component and minimum 60% in the practical component with an overall 60% for final course grade (Grade C) is required for entry into semester 2 and 3 of the Medical Laboratory Technician program. Professors teaching in the MLAB program will meet for a grade review and students who are not successful will be emailed by the program coordinator or designate for a meeting before the new semester begins.

Please Note:

• It is the students’ academic responsibility to keep track of their performance , therefore students who believe they are having problems should immediately seek counselling from their teacher, program coordinator or success advisor.
• Students repeating MLAB 123 must do so in the summer semester due to space restrictions.
• Students readmitted to second semester in the Winter must take MLAB 123 in the summer semester due to space restrictions.

Phlebotomy and ECG practicum certification:students must obtain a minimum of 37/51 points for phlebotomy practical, obtain a minimum of 25 venipunctures and 10 technically accurate ECG tracings on their peers.

Course Requirements – Course Outlines

Course outlines specify relevant course learning outcomes to be achieved and assessments that measure achievement of that learning. Course outlines also offer a general description of the course, its content, requirements, and required learning resources (e.g., textbooks, equipment/materials). Course outlines also offer a general description of the course, its content, requirements, and learning resources. Course outlines clearly communicate expectations to learners concerning requirements for admission to the course (e.g.., pre- and co-requisites), successful completion of the course, and other course-specific policies and procedures. Ensure you review the course outlines for each of your courses to be aware of requirements and expectations.