Laboratory and X-Ray Technology Combined

Students learn the methodology commonly used for quantitative analysis of clinical specimens. Principles and applications of light measurement systems, electrochemical techniques, and immunoassay methods will be discussed. Laboratory sessions will introduce the students to the maintenance and operation of clinical laboratory instrumentation. Quality management concepts will be introduced and emphasized as a means of ensuring the validity of test results.

Students learn the production and function of the normal blood cells (erythrocytes, leukocytes and thrombocytes). The laboratory sessions will emphasize clinical methods, techniques and provide practice with both analyzers and microscopic evaluation of specimens. Major topics will include benign blood conditions and routine tests for coagulation.

Medical Laboratory Professionals are required to perform a variety of procedures safely and properly on a daily basis. Proper use, handling and maintenance of equipment is essential for accurate laboratory results. In this course, students will learn the theory and skills required to perform basic procedures in a medical laboratory, which includes safety, infection control practices, mathematical calculations, reagent preparation, proper microscope use, laboratory grade glassware, balances, centrifuges, pH meters, thermal equipment and the importance of water quality.

A foundational understanding of x-ray physics allows Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) and Combined Lab and X-Ray Technologists (CLXTs) to effectively operate x-ray imaging systems, optimizing images and data. Students learn the principles, operation, and quality control testing of x-ray generating equipment and image acquisition equipment. Students also learn how different factors affect image quality. Laboratory sessions will provide students with the experience of using radiographic imaging systems for image acquisition, quality control, and image analysis.

Students learn radiographic positioning techniques of the appendicular skeleton in a laboratory setting. Radiographic images will be produced using anthropomorphic phantoms. Students will critique radiographic images, including identifying soft tissues and skeletal structures and recognizing associated pathologies.

Students learn the clinical significance and methods of analysis for various chemical constituents in biological specimens. Major topics will include carbohydrate metabolism, hepatic function, renal function, fluid and electrolyte metabolism, and acid-base homeostasis. Laboratory sessions will provide practice with manual techniques and operation of automated analyzers. Theoretical concepts and laboratory techniques required for the physical, chemical and microscopic evaluation of urine are also studied.

Students will perform various blood collections and electrocardiograms for diagnostic purposes. Procedures and troubleshooting techniques will be practiced to ensure a quality blood sample or tracing is obtained while adapting to special circumstances and patient conditions. Students will be able to recognize various cardiac arrhythmias and assess the electrocardiogram for technical accuracy. In addition, principles and procedures for the selection, receiving and issuing of blood products for transfusion purposes will be discussed.

Students learn fluoroscopic imaging systems' principles, operation, and quality control. The fundamental elements of diagnostic imaging, fluoroscopic procedures, quality management, and radiation safety will be explored and applied.

Students will learn radiographic positioning techniques of the bony thorax, vertebral column and skull in a laboratory setting. Radiographic images will be produced using anthropomorphic phantoms. Students will critique radiographic images to include identifying soft tissues, skeletal structures, and recognizing associated pathologies.

Students learn the pathophysiology of blood diseases involving leukocytes and erythrocytes and how those results play a role in diagnosis and treatment. Laboratory sessions will focus on cellular morphological differences and other laboratory data to differentiate blood diseases.

Students will learn the clinical significance and methods of analysis for biochemical tests related to proteins and enzymes, lipid metabolism, toxicology, therapeutic drug monitoring, and thyroid function. Laboratory sessions will provide practice with the operation of automated analyzers and applied Quality Control.

To advance the process of reconciliation and address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action, students will examine the history, impact, and legacy of colonialism on Aboriginal health in Canada and develop intercultural competence to provide culturally competent care and services. Students will also learn the importance of maintaining professional conduct and adhering to ethical standards in a healthcare setting, patient transfer techniques, medical accessory equipment, medical emergencies, medications utilized in the diagnostic imaging department, and patient management strategies. Simulated scenarios allow students to practice the use of effective communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills. Emphasis will be placed on efficiency, accuracy, precision, and professionalism while performing laboratory and x-ray procedures in conjunction with correlating test results.

Students will learn radiographic positioning techniques for the chest and abdomen. The laboratory sessions will provide practice with adaptive radiographic procedures based on various patient conditions and examinations. Students will critique radiographic images which includes identifying soft tissues, skeletal structures and recognizing pathologies.

Students will participate in work-integrated learning at a rural healthcare facility. Under the direct and indirect supervision of registered technologists, students will gain experience in safe work practices professionalism, client relations, specimen procurement and handling, and urinalysis. Students will participate as a member of the healthcare team to process, analyze, and correlate laboratory findings while further developing critical thinking and troubleshooting skills. Emphasis will be placed on acquiring the skills required for an entry level technologist outlined by the Alberta College of Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists (ACCLXT).

Students will participate in work-integrated learning at a rural healthcare facility. Under the direct and indirect supervision of registered technologists, students will gain experience in safe work practices, professionalism, client relations and radiographic procedures. Students will participate as a member of the healthcare team to produce x-ray images while considering patient, technical and pathologic factors as they develop critical thinking and troubleshooting skills. Emphasis will be placed on acquiring the skills required for an entry level technologist outlined by the Alberta College of Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists (ACCLXT).

Students will participate in work-integrated learning at a rural healthcare facility. Under the direct and indirect supervision of registered technologist, students will gain experience in special phlebotomy procedures, hematology and chemistry disciplines, and electrocardiography. Students will produce x-ray images acknowledging patient, technical and pathologic considerations. Combining both laboratory and x-ray disciplines students will develop critical thinking and troubleshooting skills to enhance the workflow required for an entry level technologist outlined by the Alberta College of Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists (ACCLXT).

Students will learn with, from, and about one another to improve patient care as a part of an interprofessional team. Role clarity, communication, and person-centered care will be analyzed, along with conflict, team functioning, and patient safety, from an interprofessional perspective. Students will use these skills to practice effectively within a diverse interprofessional team.

Students will participate in work-integrated learning at a rural healthcare facility. Under the direct and indirect supervision of registered technologist, students will achieve competency in special phlebotomy procedures, hematology and chemistry disciplines, and electrocardiography. Student will produce x-ray images acknowledging patient, technical and pathologic considerations. Combining both laboratory and x-ray disciplines students will develop critical thinking and troubleshooting skills to enhance the workflow required for an entry level technologist outlined by the Alberta College of Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technologists (ACCLXT).