Laboratory Assistant Program draft

Program Overview

Herzing's Medical Laboratory Assistant program provides foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, and laboratory techniques. Students develop skills in specimen collection, communication, and computer literacy. The program prepares individuals for the CSMLS certification exam and offers a clinical practicum for hands-on experience. Graduates are equipped for careers as lab technicians, medical assistants, and phlebotomists.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Not Applicable.

Outline:

• Anatomy and Physiology:
This course provides foundational knowledge of medical terminology and introduces students to the organization and structure of the human body (anatomy) and its functions (physiology). Topics covered include:
• Medical terminology
• The structure and major functions of body systems
• Laboratory testing of physiology and pathology
• Basic laboratory mathematics
• Health Care, Communication, and Computers:
This course equips students with the necessary skills for effective healthcare communication and computer literacy. Topics covered include:
• Roles and responsibilities in healthcare
• Communication techniques
• Basic computer skills
• Assertiveness
• Non-verbal communication
• Team work
• Communication with patients
• Dealing with challenging behaviors
• Documentation
• Laboratory Safety:
This course emphasizes laboratory safety protocols and the proper care and use of laboratory equipment. Topics covered include:
• Laboratory mathematics
• Chemical, biological, and physical hazards
• Infection control
• Basic first aid
• Safe handling and care of laboratory equipment
• Specimen Collection:
This course provides hands-on instruction and practice in specimen collection, preparation, and testing. Topics covered include:
• Phlebotomy
• Clinical chemistry
• Hematology
• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Serology
• Immunohematology
• Histology
• Cytology
• Specific testing procedures for common laboratory tests
• Certification Preparation:
This course prepares students to take the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) certification exam which students are expected to write to work in a medical lab.
• Clinical Practicum:
Students gain real-life experience through a 6-week internship at a clinical facility, working alongside professionals. This hands-on training allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting.

Teaching:

The faculty team includes Diane Perry, Instructor in Medical Laboratory Assistant, with extensive experience and expertise in various healthcare domains, including Clinical Chemistry, Hematology, Medical Microbiology, and Histology.

Careers:

Graduates from Herzing's Medical Laboratory Assistant program are equipped to pursue a wide range of careers as:

• Lab Technician Assistant
• Medical Technician
• Medical Lab Assistant
• Phlebotomist