Old Dominion University
College of Health Sciences
SCHOOL OF MEDICAL DIAGNOSTIC & TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCES
Medical Laboratory Science
Clinical Practicum Student Handbook
© 2023
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 2
Disclaimer
The Medical Laboratory Science Program collaborates with the affiliated sites to provide best clinical
experience and secure timely graduation. However, the Program cannot guarantee clinical
placements for everyone if the hospitals affected by a crisis (including pandemic) are not able to
facilitate them. Under special circumstances faculty may allow shorter rotations if all competencies
are completed (meaning the content reflects credit due). We assure that every student who
successfully completes the MLS coursework, is eligible for the national certification MLS(ASCP)
exam.
Program Mission Statement
The mission of the Medical Laboratory Science Program is to provide an excellent educational
program embodying a curriculum that prepares students to become competent professionals who are
committed to providing quality patient care, serving the community, and advancing the body of
knowledge in clinical laboratory science.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 3
Table of Contents
Disclaimer .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Program Mission Statement ..................................................................................................................... 2
Program Goals ............................................................................................................................................ 7
Graduate Competencies ........................................................................................................................... 7
Purpose of the Clinical Practicum: ........................................................................................................... 8
Student Expectations: ................................................................................................................................ 9
Clinical Instructors: ..................................................................................................................................... 9
Service Work Policy .............................................................................................................................. 10
Clinical Liaisons and Instructors ....................................................................................................... 11
American Red Cross/Norfolk ................................................................................................................................ 11
Bon Secours - Maryview Medical Center ........................................................................................................... 11
Bon Secours - Mary Immaculate Hospital ......................................................................................................... 11
Bon Secours - Southampton Memorial Hospital (Franklin) .......................................................................... 11
Chesapeake Regional Medical Center ................................................................................................................ 11
Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, Inc ............................................................................................ 12
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth ....................................................................................................................... 12
Riverside Regional Medical Center ..................................................................................................................... 12
Riverside Walter Reed Hospital (Gloucester) ................................................................................................... 13
Riverside Doctor’s Memorial Hospital (Williamsburg) ................................................................................... 13
Sentara Laboratory Services ................................................................................................................................ 13
Sentara Careplex Hospital (SCH) ......................................................................................................................... 13
Sentara Leigh Hospital (SLH) ................................................................................................................................ 13
Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (SNGH) ......................................................................................................... 14
Sentara Obici Hospital (SOH) ................................................................................................................................ 14
Sentara Princess Anne Hospital (SPAH) ........................................................................................................... 14
Sentara Virginia Beach Hospital (SVBGH) / Sentara Independence .......................................................... 14
Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center (SWRMC) ........................................................................... 14
UVA Health System (Charlottesville, VA) ........................................................................................................... 14
Veterans Administration Medical Center Hampton ......................................................................................... 15
Veterans Administration Medical Center Richmond ...................................................................................... 15
Note on Medical Laboratory Science Program Policies: .................................................................... 16
Criminal Background Check ................................................................................................................... 17
Health Records ......................................................................................................................................... 20
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 4
Hepatitis B Vaccine Declination Form .............................................................................................. 21
Emergency Health Care Services Responsibility .......................................................................... 22
Review of Didactic Course Materials .................................................................................................... 23
Color Blind Testing ................................................................................................................................... 23
Professionalism ........................................................................................................................................ 23
Interprofessional Education (IPE) .......................................................................................................... 23
Email Etiquette .......................................................................................................................................... 23
Cell Phone Use and Storage .................................................................................................................. 23
Dress Code and Grooming ..................................................................................................................... 23
ROTATION SCHEDULES AND ASSIGNMENTS .............................................................................. 24
Attendance Policies ................................................................................................................................. 25
Safety ......................................................................................................................................................... 26
OSHA Standard .......................................................................................................................................................... 26
Clinical Site Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) .......................................................................................... 26
Hepatitis B Vaccine .................................................................................................................................................... 26
Exposure Incidents ..................................................................................................................................................... 26
Standards for Privacy .............................................................................................................................. 27
INSTRUCTOR EVALUATION OF STUDENT SKILLS...................................................................... 29
Clinical Practicum Grades ....................................................................................................................... 30
Trajecsys
R
system: ................................................................................................................................... 31
Registration ............................................................................................................................................................... 31
Logging into Trajecsys ........................................................................................................................................... 31
Student Home Page (example) ............................................................................................................................. 31
Evaluations ................................................................................................................................................................ 31
Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................................................................... 31
Clocking In and Out ................................................................................................................................................. 32
Time Exceptions ....................................................................................................................................................... 32
Unmatched Time Records ..................................................................................................................................... 33
Action Plans: ............................................................................................................................................. 34
Failure Policy: ........................................................................................................................................... 34
Withdrawal: ................................................................................................................................................ 34
STUDENT EVALUATION OF CLINICAL INSTRUCTORS & PRACTICUM PROGRAM ........... 35
Student Evaluation of Clinical Instructors: ............................................................................................ 36
Student Evaluation of the Clinical Practicum/Rotation Program: ...................................................... 36
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 5
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION ............................................................................................... 37
Appendix A .............................................................................................................................................. 39
PROGRAM POLICIES ............................................................................................................................ 40
Program Policies Acknowledgement ..................................................................................................... 46
CLINICAL COURSE POLICIES ............................................................................................................ 47
Clinical Course Policies Acknowledgment ........................................................................................... 51
Appendix B .............................................................................................................................................. 52
MLS 322 PHLEBOTOMY INTERNSHIP .............................................................................................. 53
MLS 322 – PHLEBOTOMY INTERNSHIP OBJECTIVES/EVALUATION FORM ........................ 56
MLS 322 CLINICAL TIME AND ATTENDANCE LOG ........................................................................ 59
CLINICAL HEMATOLOGY PRACTICUM ............................................................................................ 60
MLS 404 Clinical Hematology Practicum Competency Task List ............................................. 65
CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY PRACTICUM ......................................................................................... 70
MLS 406 Clinical Microbiology Practicum Competency Task List ........................................... 78
CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY PRACTICUM .......................................................................................... 85
MLS 452 Clinical Biochemistry Practicum Competency Task List ........................................... 92
CLINICAL IMMUNOHEMATOLOGY PRACTICUM ............................................................................ 95
MLS 454 Clinical Blood Bank Practicum Competency Task List ............................................ 105
CLINICAL URINALYSIS OBJECTIVES .............................................................................................. 107
Urinalysis Checklist ................................................................................................................................ 110
Urinalysis Rotation Study Questions and Case Studies ........................................................... 112
CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY/SEROLOGY OBJECTIVES .................................................................. 113
Immunology/Serology Practicum Checklist ........................................................................................ 116
Immunology/Serology Rotation Study Questions and Case Studies .................................... 118
Appendix C ............................................................................................................................................ 119
MLS Clinical Practicum Assignments .................................................................................................. 120
CLINICAL TIME AND ATTENDANCE LOG ....................................................................................... 121
MDTS Safety Check-Off ........................................................................................................................ 123
ODU MLS Program Safety Check-off Signature Sheet .................................................................... 126
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES INCIDENT REPORT ............................................................. 127
ODU Blood Borne Pathogens Pamphlet ............................................................................................ 130
CDC Recommendations for Immediate Postexposure Interventions ............................................. 132
After-Hours Assistance (Health Services) .......................................................................................... 134
Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Policy .................................................................... 135
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 6
Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Evaluation Guidelines ........................................ 137
Clinical Practicum Grade Form ............................................................................................................ 140
Interprofessional Interaction Documentation ..................................................................................... 141
Student Oral Presentations Evaluation Form .................................................................................... 142
CLINICAL ROTATION ACTION PLAN FORM .................................................................................. 143
Student Evaluation of Clinical Instructors ........................................................................................... 144
Student Evaluation of the Clinical Practicum/Rotation Program ..................................................... 145
Student Records Release Authorization Form .................................................................................. 146
Alumni Registration Form...................................................................................................................... 147
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 7
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Program Goals
• To provide students with a model educational system based upon scientific and technological
excellence.
• To provide a high-quality academic program and clinical learning experiences that espouses
commitment to quality patient care and concern for the dignity and rights of all patients.
• To provide opportunities for faculty and the professional community to work with students to further
the body of knowledge in the profession through research and scholarship.
• To provide qualified and competent practitioners and future leaders, within the educational
framework, in order to ensure the integrity of the profession, promote service to the community, and
respond to health care issues and needs.
Graduate Competencies
• Develops and performs specimen collection, processing, and evaluation, adapting systems when
corrective actions are indicated.
• Performs analytical tests on body fluids, cells, and other substances.
• Correlates laboratory data, recognizes problems, and selects appropriate corrective actions.
• Utilizes quality control and quality assurance measures to evaluate the validity and reliability of
laboratory test results and services provided.
• Evaluates new techniques, instruments, and methodologies.
• Applies knowledge of applicable regulations that govern laboratory operations so that compliance is
maintained.
• Demonstrates professional conduct and interpersonal skills with patients, laboratory personnel, and
other health care professionals.
• Exercises principles of financial, operations, information, and human resource management.
• Applies principles of educational methodology in the development and delivery of instructional
materials to students, health care professionals, and patients.
• Recognizes the importance of continuing education for growth and the maintenance of professional
competence.
• Applies knowledge of research design in evaluating published studies.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 8
Purpose of the Clinical Practicum:
The Clinical Practicum component of the Medical Laboratory Science curriculum allows the student to gain
valuable practical experience in a clinical laboratory setting. Students are expected to be able to build on the
foundation of knowledge, skills and values acquired from the university classroom and laboratory courses as
they master challenges provided in clinical practice. The practice experiences will allow the student the
opportunity to display professional characteristics, gain confidence, and develop proficiency in both: technical
and theoretical laboratory practice skills.
According to the Standards for Accredited Programs for Medical Laboratory Scientist established by the
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS, 2012 updated April 2023)*, a Medical
Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist Program at the baccalaureate level should prepare students who
are able to demonstrate entry-level competencies as described below:
“At entry level, the medical laboratory scientist will possess the entry level competencies necessary to
perform the full range of clinical laboratory tests in areas such as Clinical Chemistry,
Hematology/Hemostasis, Immunology, Immunohematology/Transfusion medicine, Microbiology,
Urine and Body Fluid Analysis and Laboratory Operations, and other emerging diagnostics, and will
play a role in the development and evaluation of test systems and interpretive algorithms. The
medical laboratory scientist will have diverse responsibilities in areas of analysis and clinical decision
‐
making, regulatory compliance with applicable regulations, education, and quality
assurance/performance improvement wherever laboratory testing is researched, developed or
performed.
At entry level, the medical laboratory scientist will have the following basic knowledge and skills in:
A. Application of safety and governmental regulations and standards as applied to clinical
laboratory science;
B. Principles and practices of professional conduct and the significance of continuing
professional development;
C. Communications sufficient to serve the needs of patients, the public and members of the
health care team;
D. Principles and practices of administration and supervision as applied to clinical laboratory
science;
E. Educational methodologies and terminology sufficient to train/educate users and providers
of laboratory services;
F. Principles and practices of clinical study design, implementation and dissemination of
results.”
*National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (2012, updated April 2023). NAACLS Standards
for Accredited and Approved Programs (MLS Unique Standards), p. 10.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 9
Student Expectations:
The practical experiences that students gain while in clinical practicum courses should prepare students to
work in a clinical laboratory setting as entry-level Medical Laboratory Scientist in areas of Clinical Chemistry,
Hematology/Hemostasis, Immunology, Immunohematology/Transfusion medicine, Microbiology, Urine and
Body Fluid Analysis and Laboratory Operations, and other emerging diagnostics, and will play a role in the
development and evaluation of test systems and interpretive algorithms (NAACLS Standards 2012, updated
April 2023). Phlebotomy internship is offered to the students as an elective.
Once entry-level competence is demonstrated, work in the various clinical disciplines may be performed under
the instructor’s supervision. Student learning experiences, however, are not substituted for the work of the
staff. Service work performed by students outside of academic hours is not required or permitted to fulfill
practicum requirements. This is verbalized in the Service Work Policy provided on the following page and
communicated to the affiliated clinical sites’ Liaisons to meet the requirements stated by the National
Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) in Standards IV.A.1.j (Students – Publications
and Disclosures) and V E-F (Operational Policies, Fair Practices).
Clinical Instructors:
The clinical instructors at the clinical affiliate sites are experienced Medical Technologists/Medical Laboratory
Scientists who have a special dedication to the profession and to students in particular.
The next pages provide contact information for clinical instructors at sites affiliated with ODU Medical
Laboratory Science Program at the time this handbook is updated. Note that not all affiliated sites accept
students every year and that changes in instructor responsibilities may be expected. ODU MLS Program
Clinical Coordinator provides students with proper contact information prior the practicum.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 10
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Service Work Policy
Background:
The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Science (NAACLS) states that “policies and processes
by which students may perform service work must be published” (Standard IV.A.1.j.) and that “Service work by
students in clinical settings outside of academic hours must be noncompulsory” (Standard V.E-F).
Additionally, the Compliance Guide for the Standards states: “Service work by students (noncompulsory
outside of class hours, never used as staff replacement) should be addressed, including how and when this
information is distributed to students, faculty, and clinical staff and/or clinical sites”.
At ODU, student applicants to the Program sign the acknowledgement of MLS Program Policies prior
interviews. Following the decision of the ODU MLS Clinical Advisory Committee on November 30, 2018, the
statement provided below must be communicated not only to the students but also to the liaisons of the clinical
sites affiliated with the Program. The liaisons will acknowledge the receipt of the policy via email sent to
program director at [email protected]
.
The acknowledgement will be valid for the duration of the affiliation agreement or until the clinical liaison for the
organization changes. Program Director will keep the signed acknowledgements on file.
Policy Statement:
Student learning experiences in clinical practicum courses are performed under the supervision of a preceptor.
Student learning experiences, however, are not substituted for the work of the staff. Service work performed by
students outside of academic hours is not required or permitted to fulfill practicum requirements”.
Acknowledged by: __________________________________ (Liaison’s Name, Printed)
Signature: _________________________________________
Organization Name: _____________________________________________________
Date: _____________________________________________
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 11
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Clinical Liaisons and Instructors
Liaison/Instructor
Department/Role
Contact
0B
American Red Cross/Norfolk
611 W Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, VA 23510
Beth Eades
Manager
Main Lab number (ask for
Stephanie if Beth Eades not
available)
757-446-7713
Sarah Malenfant
Laboratory Technical
Trainer/ODU Liaison
757-446-7713
1B
Bon Secours - Maryview Medical Center
Linda McClenney
Regional Director of
Laboratory Services
(757) 398-2454
Terry Allen
ODU Liaison / Coordinator for
all Bon Secours locations
757-398-2286
Phyllis Ramirez
Laboratory Manager
757-398-2088
Katherine Miller
Blood Bank
757-398-2259
Pegah Brown
Hematology/Chemistry/UA
757-398-2096
Ruby (Yvonne)
Reinking
Phlebotomy
757-398-2198
2B
Bon Secours - Mary Immaculate Hospital
Linda McClenney
Regional Director of
Laboratory Services
757-886-6463
Mary Lacombe
Laboratory Manager
757-886-6032
Lori Downey
Core Lab Supervisor
3B
Bon Secours - Southampton Memorial Hospital (Franklin)
Linda Pittman
Site Manager
757-569-6194 (or 6193 for lab)
4B
Chesapeake Regional Medical Center
Barbara Shields
Kirby Badger
Laboratory Manager
Tech specialist/ Onboarding
Student Coordinator
757-312-6174
757-312-4084
Latasha Neal
ODU Liaison
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 12
Hematology/Chemistry/Blood
Bank Manager
757-312-4018
Belinda Davis
Microbiology Manager
757-312-3028
Rhonda Paragna
Phlebotomy Supervisor
757-312-1335
5B
Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, Inc
Mary Shields
ODU Liaison/Education
Coordinator
757-668-7602
Christina Ballance
Hematology/Hemostasis/
Urinalysis
757-668-9708
Sandra Nixon
Blood Bank
757-668-9711
Suzanne Quesnel
Microbiology/Virology/
Serology/Molecular
Diagnostics Manager
757-668-7267
Patrick Oetman
Chemistry
757-668-9745
Alex Le
Core Lab Operations
Manager
757-668-7485
6B
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth
620 John Paul Jones Circle
Portsmouth, VA 23708
LCDR Jenny Smith
Department Head
LCDR Juan
RodriguezBarrantes
Assistant Department Head
juan.b.rodriguezbarrantes.m[email protected]
757-953-1735
LCDR Erik
Shanahan
Medical Director
757-953-1700
Cynthia Sivells
ODU Liaison
cynthia.m.sivells.civ@ health.mil
757-953-1705
Cynthia Sivells
Phlebotomy
cynthia.m.sivells.civ@ health.mil
757-953-1705
Cynthia Sivells
Hematology
cynthia.m.sivells.civ@health.mil
757-953-1705
LT. Roberto
Mangahas
Blood Bank
757-953-1710/ 757-953-1738
Cynthia Sivells
Chemistry
cynthia.m.sivells.civ@health.mil
757-953-1705
Ruben Ayala
Microbiology
757-953-1750
Cristina Ruffy
Laboratory Dept. Quality
Assurance
7B
Riverside Regional Medical Center
Susan Elliott
Laboratory Director/ ODU
Liaison for all Riverside sites
Susan.Elliott@rivhs.com
757-612-6104
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 13
Tyanna Parish
Hematology and Chemistry
Core Lab Manager
757-612-7917
Amarina Rainey
Microbiology
757-612-6083
Vickie Berry
Terri Kinley
Blood Bank
vickie.berry@rivhs.com
757-594-3035
Sonia Bailey
Support Services Supervisor/
Phlebotomy
757-612-7932
8B
Riverside Walter Reed Hospital (Gloucester)
Karrie Harris
Laboratory Director
804-695-8563
9B
Riverside Doctor’s Memorial Hospital (Williamsburg)
Margaret Goodman
Blood Bank
757 585-2089
Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital
Kristie Finney
Education Coordinator
757-302-2261
Susan Sparrow
Chemistry
757-302-2269
Sara Reiter
Microbiology
757-302-2263
Kathy Brown
Hematology
757-302-2266
June Crockett
Blood Bank
757-302-2264
10B
Sentara Laboratory Services
Jessica Linhardt
ODU Liaison for all locations
Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (SAMC)
1144 N. Road St., Elizabeth City, NC
Scotty McNeil
(interim)
Manager
GSMCNEI1@sentara.com 252-384-4624
Jessica Dimtroff
Phlebotomy
11B
Sentara Careplex Hospital (SCH)
3000 Coliseum Dr., Hampton, VA
Angie M. Swogger Lab Manager
757-736-0111
Michelle Spencer Phlebotomy
757-736-0115
12B
Sentara Leigh Hospital (SLH)
830 Kempsville Rd., Norfolk, VA
Audra Parmiter
Manager
AMPARMI[email protected]
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 14
757-261-6657
13B
Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (SNGH)
600 Gresham Drive, Norfolk, VA
Theresa Whitfield
Grace Sikes (Team
Coordinator)
Manager, Chemistry,
Hematology, Urinalysis
757-388-1972
Kristie Barrick
Transfusion Services
kxbarric@sentara.com ; 757-388-2445
Debra Vaughn
(manager)
Microbiology
757-388-1589
Aleda Beamon
Phlebotomy
Sentara Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory
Dr. David Seidman
Clinical Point of Contact
Molecular & Serology
DXSEIDMA@sentara.com 757-388-2153
14B
Sentara Obici Hospital (SOH)
2800 Godwin Blvd., Suffolk, VA
Irene Revita
Laboratory Manager
757-934-4731
Spence Moore
Phlebotomy
SXMOORE@sentara.com 757-388-1961
15BSentara Princess Anne Hospital (SPAH)
2025 Glenn Mitchell Dr., Virginia Beach, VA
Scotty McNeil
Manager
16BSentara Virginia Beach Hospital (SVBGH) / Sentara Independence
1060 First Colonial Rd., VB, VA
Priscilla Darville
Laboratory Manager
PADARVIL@sentara.com ; 757-395-8696
Jacqueline Danner
Phlebotomy
JRDANNER@sentara.com ; 757-395-6528
17B
Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center (SWRMC)
100 Sentara Circle, Williamsburg, VA
Dan Scungio
(interim)
Laboratory Manager/Site
Coordinator
757-984-7966
Michele Spencer
Phlebotomy
[email protected]; 757-736-0115
18B
UVA Health System (Charlottesville, VA)
Briana Shelton
ODU liaison/ Education
Coordinator. Needs to be
copied on all emails to other
personnel
Cell# (preferred) 540-471-5189
434-924-1594
Kevin Hearl
Chemistry
Suzi Stauffer
Hematology
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 15
Bo (Rachel) Forbes
Microbiology
Matthew Burroughs
Blood Bank
19B
Veterans Administration Medical Center Hampton
Mary Petty
Samantha Carr
ODU Liaison/ Laboratory
Manager
Education Coordinator
757-722-9961 x3632
(757) 722-9961, ext. 2889
Deitra Phillips
Hematology/Coag/
757-722-9961 x 2870
Niurca Rossy
Microbiology/Blood Bank
757-722-9961 x 2868
Brandi Baker
Chemistry
757.722.9961 x2444
Keri Johnson
Phlebotomy
757-722-9961 x 2650
20B
Veterans Administration Medical Center Richmond
Neil Gamayon
ODU Clinical Liaison
804- 675-5812
Tammy Persinger
Hematology
Eric Lin
Microbiology
CP: 804-548-5237
Olivia Durham
Chemistry
Winnie Achoki
Blood Bank
Monique Locsin
Immunology
Isabel Dujka
Ancillary
804-675-5000 ext. 8036
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 16
Note on Medical Laboratory Science Program Policies:
All ODU Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Program Policies and Practices are determined and enforced by
the Program Director in conjunction with the School of Medical Diagnostic and Translational Sciences and the
MLS Advisory Committee (**See Appendix A for Program Policies).
Advisory Committee: The MLS Advisory Committee consists of: Education Coordinators from affiliate
sites, ODU faculty, and selected members of the professional community. The committee meets in the
fall of each academic year for a general meeting and in the spring for a meeting and student
admissions interviews and decisions. All policies and practices of the ODU MLS Program are
determined by the committee in accordance with the ODU College of Health Sciences.
Curriculum Committees: Each of the disciplines in the MLS Clinical Rotation Program has a
curriculum committee. The committees are composed of an ODU faculty member and clinical
instructors for each discipline from each affiliate site. The curriculum committees are responsible for
reviewing and revising university and clinical course objectives.
Clinical Course Policies: All clinical course policies established by the MLS Advisory Committee are
expected to be followed. (**See Appendix A for Clinical Course Policies).
Clinical Course Objectives: Clinical course objectives are formulated, reviewed, and revised by the
Curriculum Committees. The student should use the objectives to review and prepare for the rotation courses.
Clinical instructors should use the objectives to determine that all pertinent information has been covered in the
rotation. (**See Appendix B for Clinical Course Syllabi and Objectives Policies).
Clinical Course Competencies: Each clinical course is designed to culminate in the attainment of specified
competencies. Competency checklists for each clinical course must be completed for each student by clinical
instructors. These checklists must be returned to the Program Director at the completion of each course
(**See Appendix B for competency checklists).
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 17
Criminal Background Check
All students must obtain a criminal background check prior to entering clinical rotations
.
Castlebranch.com has been chosen by Old Dominion University as
the
approved source for
background checks. The myCB Profile also includes a
platform
for immunization records and for
drug screen testing (DS only required by selected facilities). The instructions for requesting the
services are on the
next
page. The cost for background check and immunization record
handling is $55.00 and the additional cost for drug testing is $60. The results of the background check
will either
be
presented in a sealed envelope to the appropriate facility representative on the first day
of each clinical facility assignment or communicated directly to the
facility
representative by ODU
Program director, depending on the clinical facility’s preference. If a facility requires the results, have a
copy made and keep the
original
for subsequent rotations. Students deemed unacceptable by a
facility due to
results
from a criminal background check forfeit that assignment and will not be
allowed
to
complete the program of
study.
The next pages contain instructions provided for the students by CastleBranch. Please, note that
instructions may be subject to change. A phone number is provided at the end so that students may
request assistance.
In addition to background check, some clinical sites have also started to require a drug screen. The
students assigned to these sites will be notified how to proceed.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 18
STUDENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR OLD
DOMINION UNIVERSITY
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE
About Your Profile
MyCB
is a secure platform that
allows you
to order
your background check
and
medical document
manager online.
Once
you have placed your order, you
may use your login to
access additional
features
of My CB, including document
storage,
portfolio builders
and
reference
tools.
MyCB
also
allows you
to
upload
any additional
documents required by your school.
Order summary
Required Personal
Information
o
In
addition
to entering
your
full name and date
of
birth,
you will
be asked for
your
Social Security
Number,
current address,
phone number
and e-mail address.
Immunizations
o
Document
trackers
provide
secure
online
storage for all
of your important documents.
At the end
of the
online
order
process you
will be prompted to
upload specific documents required by your school
for
immunization, medical
or
certification
records.
Payment
Information
o
At the
end of
the
online
order
process, you will
be
prompted
to enter your Visa or Mastercard
information.
Money
orders
are also accepted but will result
In
a $10
fee
and an
additional
turn-around-time.
Place Your Order
Go to:
castlebranch.com
and enter package code:
OD03 (or
OD03dt for drug
testing)
You will then be directed to set up your
MyCB
account.
View Your
Results
Your results
will
be posted directly
to your
MyCB
account.
You will
be
notified if
there is any
missing information
needed in
order to
process
your order.
Although
95%
of background check
results
are
completed within
3-5
business days,
some
results
may take
longer. Your
order
will show
as "In Process" until it has
been completed in
its entirety.
Your school's
administrator can also
securely view your results online
with their
unique username
and
password.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 19
Measles, Mumps & Rubella
(MMR
)
-There must be documentation of one of the
following:
•
2 vaccinations
•
Positive antibody titer for all 3 components (lab report
required)
Varicella
(Chicken Pox)
-Submit a
posit
i
ve
antibody titer (
lab
report required
)
.
Hepatitis
B
-There must be documentation of one of the
following:
3 vaccinations
Positive antibody titer (lab report
required) Declination waiver
TB
Please see table below for all TB testing acceptable by the clinical sites. CastleBranch has been notified of
2018 changes in the requirements.
Tetanus
Please submit documentation of Td booster within the past 10 years
. CastleBranch has been
notified that in the presence of the booster, we no longer require proof of
the original series.
Polio
Please submit documentation of the completed primary polio
series
.
There must be record of at least 3
vaccinations.
Influenza
Vaccination documentation
for the
current season
(August-
May). Some sites require
documentation from the previous year
If
you
need
assistance please contact
CastleBranch at
888.850.4314
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 20
Health Records
Junior Students: HBV vaccination is strongly recommended for all students enrolled in both pre-clinical and
clinical courses. All program and non-program students in pre-clinical courses must provide
documentation of completion or initiation of HBV vaccination series by the end of the first week of the
semester that classes begin. Students who choose not to be vaccinated or who have initiated the vaccine
must sign a declination form indicating receipt of information regarding the protection conferred by the
vaccine.
Senior Students: Records of immunizations required for clinical rotations are listed below. Please provide
appropriate documentation to the CastleBranch Corporation @CastleBranch.com no later than May 1 of
your junior year. Failure to do so will prevent rotation attendance and may result in forfeiture of
assignments.
DISEASE
DOCUMENTATION
Tetanus/ Diphtheria
TD booster required every 10 yrs.
Tuberculosis
Documentation is provided of either:
1. Negative IGRA test results from either: (1) QuantiFERON
®
-TB Gold In-Tube
test (GFT-GIT) or (2) T-SPOT
®
TB test (T-Spot) – NOW REQUIRED BY MOST
SITES, or
2. Two-step Mantoux Tuberculin Skin Tests TST (PPD): two tests placed and read
at least 2 weeks apart within the last year; a TST placed and read within the
past 12 mos. may be used as the 1
st
step; negative chest X-ray within last year
if history of positive TST.
Polio
Completed primary series
MMR (Measles
[Rubeola], Mumps,
Rubella)
Doses 1 & 2 @ 12 mos or later and after May 1971.
If no record of previous vaccination - titers are required
Varicella
Varicella titer - vaccine if susceptible
Hepatitis B
Vaccination series or signed declination form
Influenza
Vaccination documentation for the current season (August – May). Some sites
require documentation from the preceding year so please have that available.
COVID-19
Proof of full vaccination (two doses plus a booster) required or a notarized
exemption (acceptance of the exemption not guaranteed by the hospitals).
Note: A transcript of your Diphtheria/Tetanus, MMR, and Hepatitis B vaccination immunization records exists at
ODU Student Health Center. Additional required immunization documentation should be added to your existing
transcript so that a single document may be uploaded to CastleBranch.
The TB, Varicella titer, Mumps, Rubeola & Rubella titers (if required), and the Hepatitis B vaccine are available
either at the Student Health Center for a fee or through your personal health care provider. If obtained from your
PCP, the results should be added to your Student Health Center transcript.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 21
Old Dominion University
College of Health Sciences
School of Medical Diagnostic & Translational Sciences
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Hepatitis B Vaccine Declination Form
I understand that during my University laboratory courses and clinical practica, I will be exposed to
blood or other potentially infectious materials and I may be at risk of acquiring Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)
infection. I have been encouraged by program faculty to be vaccinated with the HBV vaccine to
eliminate or reduce the risk of acquiring the HBV. However, I decline the hepatitis B vaccination at this
time. I understand that by declining this vaccine, I continue to be at risk of acquiring HBV infection, a
serious disease. In addition, I understand that as a student, I am responsible for all arrangements and
fees involved in receiving the HBV vaccine.
I, have not been immunized against the HBV and choose not to have
the vaccine at this time.
I, have started the HBV vaccination series and I will complete it.
I understand that I continue to be at risk of acquiring HBV infection, a serious disease.
Student Signature
Date
Program Faculty
Date
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 22
Old Dominion University
College of Health Sciences
School of Medical Diagnostic & Translational Sciences
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Emergency Health Care Services Responsibility
This is to acknowledge that the undersigned student is aware that any emergency health care services needed
during clinical rotations will be his/her responsibility.
UIN
Student Name
Date
Student Signature
Date
Faculty Signature
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 23
Review of Didactic Course Materials
Students are expected to review didactic course materials before entering clinical rotations. Lecture notes,
textbooks, lab materials and clinical course objectives should also be used in preparation for clinical sites. The
ASCP BOC Review and other review materials are excellent resources for students to use in preparation for
the second phase of the program.
Clinical instructors assume that the students entering rotations are well versed in the theory of their particular
discipline. Clinical rotations are a time for learning advanced technical skills and gaining practical experience
with clinical equipment and overall laboratory operations.
Pre-tests are administered prior to each practicum. Students may be required to make up deficiencies in a
discipline before entering a clinical rotation if an acceptable grade is not achieved on the pre-test. Two
additional tests are administered during each practicum according to schedule set by the ODU course director.
All testing occurs in proctored environment. Students are expected to use their own computers and have
access to Internet.
Color Blind Testing
Although color blind testing is not required upon entry into the MLS Program, the posted Technical Standards,
signed upon acceptance, state that the students must be able to “[…] distinguish red, yellow, blue, and other
color reactions; distinguish between solutions that are clear, cloudy or particulate; identify stained and
unstained cellular and non-cellular components […]. For self-assessment of their own perception, students are
encouraged to take the online Ishihara color blindness test
https://www.color-blindness.com/ishihara-38-plates-
cvd-test/#prettyPhoto
Professionalism
Students are reminded that once they enter a clinical site, they will be treated as professional Medical
Technologists/Medical Laboratory Scientists. Students will be graded on professionalism through the
Professional Characteristics component of the grading policy. Please review these characteristics and be
prepared to exceed the standards. A display of strong ethics during the clinical rotation is expected.
Interprofessional Education (IPE)
Students are exposed to Interprofessional education events organized by the College of Health Sciences to
develop awareness of their role in the interdisciplinary health care. During the entire practicum, students are
required to document one interprofessional interaction with a health professional outside of the laboratory. See
documentation form in Appendix C.
Email Etiquette
When communicating with practicum course directors, clinical site liaisons and instructors, students should
follow the accepted email etiquette as described by ODU guidelines found at
https://www.odu.edu/content/dam/odu/offices/mane-connect/doc/emailing-professors.pdf
Cell Phone Use and Storage
Listing of cell phones by OSHA and laboratory safety officers as distractions, and the potential for their
contamination are reasons to restrict cell phone use in technical areas. There are confidentiality and security
concerns as well. Students will adhere to the cell phone use policy at their clinical site.
Dress Code and Grooming
Dress codes are site specific. Scrubs and lab coats over street clothes are examples of allowed attire. If the
site that you are attending does not have a specific dress code, please be reminded that blue jeans, sweat
pants, shorts and short skirts are not appropriate. Legs must be fully covered including ankles, (low-cut socks
are not acceptable). Shoes should be clean, leather, closed toe and heel, and functional. Grooming policies
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 24
vary but are consistent with regard to hair, nails and jewelry. Providers who have direct patient care are NOT to
wear artificial fingernails or extenders. Natural fingernails should be ≤1/4 inch long. Nails may be painted with
pink shade/clear fingernail polish. Long hair should be pulled back and tied. Avoid large, bold jewelry, i.e.
earrings, rings and necklaces.
Please contact the clinical site approximately one week in advance of your assignment to remind them
that you are coming and to obtain information on dress code, parking arrangements and preparation
for the rotation.
ROTATION SCHEDULES AND ASSIGNMENTS
Clinical rotation schedules are assigned to students on the basis of their predicted date of graduation, i.e.,
those with a closer graduation date are given preference for available rotation schedules. Clinical rotations are
scheduled over the course of two semesters by the Education Coordinator and Program Director. In most
situations, second-degree students are scheduled for summer and fall semester rotations, which will allow
them to graduate in December. Traditional and transfer students are typically scheduled for rotations in the
summer and spring semesters with a May graduation date. Part-time students and those repeating courses will
have variable graduation dates and will be scheduled for rotations accordingly.
The affiliate laboratories give the ODU Clinical Education Coordinator a list of the number of students they can
take in any given semester, and possible dates and departments for the rotations. Internships/practica will be
assigned as they become available and may be made for evening, night as well as day shifts. Students are
expected to be available for all rotations scheduled.
If placements are difficult because of the lack of available slots, there will be a priority list established that will
be based on projected date of graduation, progress in preclinical courses, and readiness to graduate (no
outstanding GED courses). Assignments will be made on a priority basis, i.e. preference will be given to
students who are ready for graduation immediately upon completion of practicum courses. Assignments will be
made based on academic performance, centered on cognitive, psychomotor, as well as affective behaviors.
Every attempt will be made to place all students and to avoid delaying individual student’s graduation.
Student learning experiences in clinical practicum courses are performed under the supervision of a preceptor.
Student learning experiences, however, are not substituted for the work of the staff. Service work performed by
students outside of academic hours is not required or permitted to fulfill practicum requirements.
Students will receive a rotation schedule for each semester for which assignments are required. Students will
keep this schedule for their records and may use the form to record grades. (See Appendix C for MLS
CLINICAL PRACTICUM ASSIGNMENTS FORM)
If a student fails to appear for a rotation, that student will be dismissed from the program. A student who does
not pass an assigned clinical rotation will be placed at the end of the list and must wait for the next available
rotation, assuming that there is no other violations of the program’s continuance policy.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 25
Attendance Policies
All students scheduled for clinical rotations are expected to show up on time each day of the rotation.
Failure to show up for a rotation or leaving a rotation without properly notifying the Clinical Instructor,
Clinical Education Coordinator and Program Director will result in the student’s suspension from the
rotation.
Rotation Hours:
The beginning and ending hours for each rotation day are left to the discretion of the Clinical
Instructor. Rotations that include maintenance often have variable hours to allow the student to
experience all aspects of the daily routine. Student’s clinical time should be as close to a full-time job time
as possible and practical. A typical full-time job is 40 hrs per week. The American Society for Clinical Pathology
considers anything between 35 and 40 hours per week as “full time” experience.
Vacations and Holiday Schedule:
While in clinical rotations, students will follow the hospital’s vacation and holiday policy and not the
University’s schedule (i.e. students will not necessarily have the week of spring break off).
Attendance Log Sheet:
Students are required to maintain an attendance log while in their clinical rotations. (**See Appendix
C for Attendance Log). One log sheet will be kept during all rotations and is the responsibility of the
student and not the Clinical Instructors. Students are expected to sign in each day they are in rotation
and at the end of each week and have an instructor initial the attendance log. The attendance log will
be turned in to the Program Director before graduation. All students must turn in the completed
attendance log before graduation. Starting in 2022, Time Log is completed in Trajecsys.
Absence or Tardiness:
Clinical Instructors must be properly notified when there is an anticipated or unanticipated absence
or tardiness. Instances of absences and /or tardiness greater than 10% of the time during a clinical
rotation will result in a “failed to meet” evaluation of Professional Characteristics which translates to a
failing grade for the clinical course. Students are strongly encouraged to be on time and have
perfect attendance during all clinical rotations. Please remember that clinical instructors are potential
employers and references when the job search begins.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 26
Safety
OSHA Standard
Students are reminded that the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard is to be followed at all times. The
standard includes Universal Precautions, personal Protective Equipment, Engineering Controls, and Work
Practice Controls. Please review the Medical Diagnostic and Translational Sciences (MDTS) Biosafety Policy
Manual for standard guidelines and requirements.
Clinical Site Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
Students are required to follow site specific standard operating procedures for safety at all times. Students
must review with each Clinical Instructor, site specific safety instructions the first day of each rotation and
adhere to these policies throughout the rotation. The extent of safety training is at the site’s discretion. In the
absence of their own student safety checklist, clinical sites may choose to use the list of safety/orientation
items and signature sheet provided in Appendix C. The sheet must be dated and signed by the laboratory
supervisor or safety training personnel, and by the student.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
Although students are not required to obtain the HBV vaccination series, it is strongly recommended. Work will
be performed on real patient samples and therefore the protection afforded by the HBV vaccine is a wise
choice. Post immunization testing is highly recommended. A signed declination form is required if vaccination
against the HBV is rejected.
Exposure Incidents
If a student is exposed to blood or other potentially infectious material, the student must follow the exposure
protocol outlined below:
Services and treatment needed may be provided by the clinical site, ODU Student Health Center, or the
student’s Primary Care Physician (PCP) or a combination of the three.
In the Event of An Exposure Incident (contaminated needlestick, puncture wound from a contaminated,
sharp instrument or contamination of any obviously open wound or the mucous membranes by saliva, blood, or
a mixture of both saliva and blood):
1. Wounds and skin sites that have been in contact with blood or body fluids should be washed with soap and
water immediately; mucous membranes should be flushed with water. Inform the clinic site
instructor/supervisor of the incident at once.
2. If post exposure testing service is provided by the site, the student’s blood should be drawn as soon as
possible* if testing for HbsAg, Anti-HCV, and Anti-HIV is deemed necessary.
3. If this service is NOT provided at the clinical site, the student should:
a. Go to ODU Student Health Center where testing may be provided.
b. If this occurs after normal working hours at the Student Health Center, the on-call licensed care
practitioner will be notified and will refer the student for the off-site testing (757-683-4000). (See
Appendix C for Student Health/ODU Student Exposure Information). The student through the
student’s own insurance or resources must cover needed services and treatment. Post
exposure services, including counseling are available through Student Health Center;
however, the student is responsible for the cost of all testing.
c. Go to his/her PCP to obtain the necessary post exposure services and treatment.
4. The person whose blood or body fluid is the source of an occupational exposure should be evaluated for
HBV, HCV, and HIV infection as soon as possible* so that appropriate follow-up can be instituted. If the
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 27
student is seeking post exposure care at the Student Health Center or from a PCP, the results of the source
patient testing should be made available as soon as possible*.
The incident should be reported to the MLS Program Director and the Student Health Center. The student and
supervising instructor should complete the COHS Incident Report Form (See Appendix C). One copy should
be kept at the health facility where the accident occurred, one copy should be submitted to the Program
Director, and one copy to the Student Health Center. Both should be submitted within 24 hours.
*Student and source person should be evaluated as soon as possible after the exposure incident. Post
exposure prophylaxis (PEP), if needed, should ideally be initiated within two hours (See Appendix C).
As discussed at Spring 2023 Clinical Advisory Committee meeting (March 23, 2023), in the event of a potential
student exposure to a select agent as defined by the Center for Disease Control:
1. Affected student(s) and ODU staff will be notified of a potential exposure within 24 hours (this includes
students currently in the rotation, as well as those who already completed their rotation since the
potential exposure).
2. Affected student(s) will be instructed by the clinical site of their student exposure policy for follow up
monitoring and/or treatment and testing, if necessary.
3. Students will be provided contact information of the person handling the exposures at the clinical site.
Standards for Privacy
All students are required to become knowledgeable about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability
Act (HIPAA) of 1996 and state laws regarding standards of privacy. The next page contains signature sheet
with confidentiality obligations. Sign the form and return to Program Director, Medical Laboratory Science, Old
Dominion University. Keep a copy for your records.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 28
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Standards for Privacy at Affiliated Facilities
Student’s Name: ___________________________________
Confidentiality Obligations. In the course of your presence at affiliated institutions you may be exposed
to incidentally or otherwise federally protected health information (PHI) and other Confidential Information
including, but not limited to: all patient information, all information, data, reports, records, summaries, tables
and studies, strategic and development plans, financial condition, business plans, co-developer identities,
customer lists, employee lists and business manuals, whether written or oral, fixed in hard copy or
contained in any computer data base or computer readable form, as well as any information identified as
confidential (“Confidential”) of the affiliated institution.
You must abide by the Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information (IIHI) (the “Privacy
Regulations”) under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”) and State Laws
including but not limited to the following:
1. You have a responsibility to protect PHI and other Confidential Information and that a breach of
confidentiality may make you subject to legal action in forfeiture of the Affiliation Agreement with
termination of program participation at the Facility,
2. You cannot use or disclose PHI and other Confidential Information to any third party,
3. You can only access PHI and other Confidential Information for which you have a need to know and then
the permitted use is limited to the minimum needed in connection with performance of affiliation duties,
4. You have an obligation to keep PHI and other Confidential Information confidential, including but not limited
to:
a. Permitted conversations concerning Confidential Information must take place such that the
information remains confidential.
b. Confidential Information gained through incidental access is not to be shared with anyone.
Incidental access that could be considered a breach of confidentiality MUST be reported to the
Facility management.
c. Unless permitted by the Privacy Officer, no Confidential Information is to be removed from the
Facility.
d. The proper disposal of Confidential Information requires that the information is rendered
unrecognizable. Confidential disposal bins are available throughout the Facility for use.
e. Confidential Information will be de-identified for the purposes of developing oral, written reports
required for completion of program/participant requirements.
f. Copying, transmitting, using or disclosing Confidential Information will not be permitted.
I understand my obligations to maintain and protect the confidentiality of protected health information (PHI).
_______________________________________________ Date: ________________
Affiliated Participant Signature
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 29
INSTRUCTOR EVALUATION OF STUDENT SKILLS
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 30
Clinical Practicum Grades
Rotation grades are calculated from three separate components (See Appendix C for Rotation Grade Form).
Written (Online) Component: The written component includes all written/online tests, papers and
presentations given during the rotation. The university provides three tests, a Pre-test, Exam 1 and Final
Exam. The weights are outlined on the grade form. The written/online component counts as 50% of the overall
course grade. A student must receive a “C” (76%) or better in order to receive a “C” or better for the rotation
grade. Action plans can be used by Education Coordinator and Course Director to remediate cognitive
problems.
Oral Presentation: Students are expected to research a subject agreed upon with the clinical instructor and
deliver a presentation on a subject to the laboratory staff. The audience attending the presentation may use the
Oral Presentation Evaluation Form provided in Appendix C. Clinical Instructors are encouraged to enter the
average scores in Trajecsys. The weight of the presentation is outlined on the grade form.
Practical Component: The practical component grade is derived from an average of practical tests. The
number and format of tests are outlined on the grade form. The practical component counts as 50% of the
overall course grade. A student must receive a “C” (76%) or better in order to receive a “C” or better for the
rotation grade.
Professional Characteristics: Students are assigned a pass/fail grade for the professional characteristics’
component of the rotation course. Students are evaluated as having “exceeded”, “met” or “failed to meet” the
following seven characteristics:
• Policy compliance
• Promptness/Attendance
• Initiative
• Responsibility
• Reliability
• Professional/Workplace Demeanor
• Integrity
(See Appendix C for Professional Characteristics Evaluation Form) A student must “exceed” or “meet” all
of the characteristics listed. One or more “failed to meet” assessment will result in a failing grade of the
professional characteristics component. A failing grade in professional characteristics will result in a failing
grade for the student in that rotation.
Practicum Grading Scale (per Advisory Committee Decision in November 2021):
A = 90-100%
B = 83-89%
C = 76-82%
D = 65-75%
F = Below 65%
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 31
Trajecsys
R
system:
In late summer/fall 2022, ODU MLS program piloted tracking students’ clinical time and competency check-offs
using an online platform called Trajecsys
R
. The student cohort starting clinical rotations in summer 2023 will
continue using the system at no charge. Registration information and instructions are provided to the clinical
liaisons and preceptors, as well as the students via email. Please be patient as the program continues
improving the system’s functionalities. Links for useful videos are provided below.
Users: https://www.screencast.com/t/9RvKK1etYf9
Time Records: https://www.screencast.com/t/A0x60pKU5TNS
Regaining Lost Access: http://www.screencast.com/t/283fswKvyc
Students and the TRS: https://www.screencast.com/t/YIS8RjFGp
Registration
Students may register up to 45 days prior to the start date of the rotations using the following registration link:
https://www.trajecsys.com/programs/registration.aspx
Logging into Trajecsys
Log into Trajecsys on a computer or on a smart phone (if your program allows smart phone clock records) at
this link: https://www.trajecsys.com/programs/login.aspx
. Students can choose to bookmark the Trajecsys
Login page.
Student Home Page (example)
Evaluations
This menu item is used for evaluations or other forms that students will complete. (Note: not all programs will
have this menu item.)
Troubleshooting
The User Guide can be accessed by clicking your name which will be located in the upper right-hand corner.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 32
Clocking In and Out
Each day when students arrive at and depart from a clinical site, they will log in on a computer (or smart
phone) and select the clinical site from a dropdown on the home page. Then the student will click the clock in
/ out button. This is the screen on a computer:
You will be automatically logged off from the system after clocking in/out on a computer; this is to protect your
records in case you were to forget to log out. When you change sites, remember to select the new site on this
page; otherwise, your times will be recorded for the wrong site.
After logging in on a smart phone, you should see a message asking to share your
location with Trajecsys. You must click “Allow.” It's important that this is selected
correctly the first time because some phones do not present the option again
without resetting location services in the phone Settings. If "Don't Allow" is
selected and no option is given the next time, the student should access the
GPS
page in the User Guide for information about resetting location services. Students
should always check with the program administrator to determine program policies
related to use of GPS / smart phone clock records. We recommend that students also
read the pages related to
resetting location warnings and how to improve accuracy.
Students should see “Good Accuracy” on the phone screen before they click the clock
in/out button. If the phone message states “Insufficient Accuracy,” students should
wait until their phone has captured a good geolocation; this may require students
(rarely) moving to another part of the building.
Time Exceptions
If you don’t file a clock in or out record, you must file a "time exception" instead. Using the clock in/out page is
always preferred over filing time exceptions. A time exception is required for every missing clock record. If a
student forgets to clock in AND forgets to clock out, this requires two separate time exceptions to correct the
two missing clock records. One time exception is not sufficient to replace two missing clock records. Again,
time exceptions should be used rarely; students should use the clock in / out button on the home page to
record time records. Enter exceptions in 24-hour format (8:00 AM is 0800; 1:00 PM is 1300; 9:00 PM is
2100).
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 33
Unmatched Time Records
If you have unmatched clock records, these cannot be approved. Example, you only have one clock record for
a day OR you clock in from one site and clock out from another site on the same date. To check for unmatched
clock records, go to the Reports page in Trajecsys; click on Time Totals. Look to see which time records have
a U? in the Status column. The U? indicates that there is a unmatched time record (note that a status of U
without the question mark just means it has not been approved yet; the question mark means that it is
unmatched). Check to see if you already have a pair of records for the same site or another site that date. Let
your program coordinator or director know if they need to delete or edit an unmatched time record; (example,
you clocked in at the wrong site and then at the correct site; have coordinator delete incorrect clock record).
You are responsible for filing time exceptions for unmatched clock records. Keep in mind that for times after
noon, you must enter the time in 24-hour format. For example, 1:30 p.m. would be entered as 1330.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 34
Action Plans:
Prescriptive action plans will be employed to facilitate student remediation of performance identified as less
than satisfactory in each component. Prescriptive action plans will be employed only one time and may extend
the time the student spends in a rotation course (See Appendix C for Action Plans).
Failure Policy:
If a student fails to obtain a grade of “C” (76%) or better for a clinical course, that course must be repeated if
the student is eligible for the repeat. (**See Appendix A for Course Policies). If eligible, the student who fails
a rotation course will be placed at the bottom of the list for an available site assignment. This may result in a
delay of the student’s scheduled graduation date. No guarantee of a graduation date can be given to a student
when a clinical rotation course is not completed successfully.
Withdrawal:
Withdrawal from any practicum course is equivalent from dismissal from the program unless approved by
Program Director upon special circumstances (which may need consulting with Student Outreach & Support
via oducares@odu.edu
).
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 35
STUDENT EVALUATION OF CLINICAL INSTRUCTORS &
PRACTICUM PROGRAM
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 36
Student Evaluation of Clinical Instructors:
All students in clinical rotations will be asked to turn in evaluations of their clinical instructors at the end of the
semester. The evaluations will be kept anonymous. They may be submitted via web links in each clinical
practicum CANVAS course (preferred) or as a hard copy (see appendix C) left in MDTS office (room 2118).
Students are reminded to list both: positive and negative experiences and give constructive criticism. Feedback
from the evaluations will be used by instructors to improve and maintain the quality of their rotation.
Student Evaluation of the Clinical Practicum/Rotation Program:
All students in clinical rotations will be asked to complete an evaluation of their entire Clinical
Practicum/Rotation Program. The evaluations will be kept anonymous. Students are asked to answer
questions candidly and to give constructive criticism. The link to the survey will be sent shortly prior graduation.
If preferred, students may leave hard copy in MDTS office (room 2118).
(See Appendix C for Clinical Instructor and Clinical Practicum/Rotation Program Evaluation Forms)
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 37
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 38
Degree Checklist:
All students are required to complete a degree checklist that will be kept in student’s file in the MLS
department. The checklist should be completed prior to entering clinical courses to ensure that all
pre-clinical courses and requirements have been met.
Clinical Course Credit Hours:
Clinical Laboratory Science students are required to complete 18 credit hours of clinical courses. The
disciplines and credit hours required are listed below:
Discipline Course Credit hrs Weeks*
Chemistry MLS 452 5 4 including special chem/Immuno
Microbiology MLS 406 5 5 including campus simulation
Blood Bank MLS 454 4 4 including campus simulation
Hematology MLS 404 4 4 including Urinalysis
18 17
*The number of weeks spent at each clinical rotation is per Clinical Advisory Committee approval in November
2021. Campus simulations for BB and Microbiology are equivalent to 2 weeks each. If the clinical site does
Urinalysis in Chemistry department, the number of weeks in chemistry will increase to 5, while hematology will
be decreased to 3. Similar adjustments may be made for Immunology.
Senior Seminar:
In addition to the 18 credit hours of clinical courses, students are required to take the Medical
Laboratory Science Seminar course (MLS 457) during their final semester. MLS 457 is a one credit,
P/F, web-based course, designed primarily to prepare students for the Board of Certification (BOC)
examination. A pre-test, discipline practice examinations and a final examination are scheduled
throughout the semester. Students must adhere to the examination schedule. A grade ≥ 70 must be
earned on the final examination and documentation of application to the BOC certification
examination must be provided in order for a “P” to be assigned.
Grade Requirements:
Students must obtain a “C” (≥76%) in each clinical course (practical and written/online) in order to
successfully complete the Medical Laboratory Science Program.
Forms and Documents:
The following forms must be submitted to the Program Director prior to graduation:
• Attendance Log
• Evaluation of the Clinical Rotation Program (link sent online prior graduation)
• Clinical Instructor Evaluation Forms (links in practicum CANVAS courses)
• Medical Laboratory Science Alumni Registration Form
• Records Release Authorization Form
• Immunology/Serology and Urinalysis Study Questions and Case Histories
(posted in CANVAS in MLS 404 and MLS 454) for students to work on during all rotations).
Program requirements are not complete unless Urinalysis and Immunology Checklists, as well as the
study questions and case studies are submitted.
See Appendix C for the Instructor and Clinical Rotation Program evaluation forms and the Alumni
Registration Form.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 39
Appendix A
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 40
OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
College of Health Sciences
School of Medical Diagnostic and Translational Sciences
Medical Laboratory Science Program
PROGRAM POLICIES
THESE POLICIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. STUDENTS WILL BE INFORMED AND HELD
RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES.
As a student in the Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Program I am aware of the following:
General Program Course, Attendance, Continuance, and Grade Requirements
1. Junior year core courses that are over three years old prior to starting a rotation, must be reevaluated
by the faculty member at ODU in charge of the specialty, in both theoretical knowledge and technical
skills. Reevaluation may result in the requirement to repeat and/or audit out-of-date courses. This
applies to both part-time and returning students.
2. Students who take courses out of sequence must demonstrate competence in the out of sequence
courses either at the end of the semester preceding or at the beginning of the semester of the out of
sequence course. Competence will be assessed by examination. If competence is not demonstrated
(grade ≥76), the course or courses must be repeated and/or audited.
3. Continuance in the program is contingent upon my maintaining a GPA of ≥2.0 in all MLS courses
attempted. Failure to maintain this will result in a probationary status for the following semester.
4. Students will be maintained in a probationary status for one semester exclusive of the summer term.
Failure to meet the minimum academic standards by the end of the probationary terms will result in
dismissal from the program.
5. At no time will students, while on probation, be allowed to enroll in any clinical courses.
6. Students with exceptional backgrounds may challenge lecture courses with permission of the course
instructor and MLS Program Director. The granting of a waiver for laboratory courses is dependent on
the evaluation of previous training and experience by the course instructor and MLS Program Director.
7. Failure to start the fall semester after admission the previous spring will result in dismissal from the
program.
8. Students are expected to abide by the University’s class attendance policy and the attendance policy of
each program course.
9. Having to attend work shall never be accepted as an excuse to miss class or leave a clinical rotation
early.
10. Students are responsible to attend all meetings so designated by the MLS Program Director. All senior
class meetings are mandatory. Also, students are required to activate and maintain an ODU e-mail
account. Students will also be held responsible and accountable for all information and policy changes
communicated through e-mail and meetings, even if not present.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 41
11. Students must maintain a minimum grade of “C” in all Medical Laboratory Science courses, including
management (MLS 403W) and statistical applications (MLS 440). Pre-clinical courses with less than a
"C" grade must be repeated before entering clinical rotations (see #14 below). Positions in
subsequent classes may not be held for students who are out of curriculum sequence if
enrollment numbers fill available course capacity.
12. Students who earn a grade of "C -" (C minus) in a pre-clinical course may submit a request for exception
(RFE) to this policy (11) to the Program Director no later than 5 working days after the receipt of the
course grade. The Medical Laboratory Science Continuance Committee*, whose decision will be final,
will review all requests for exception. If the exception is granted, the student will be put on probation.
Submission of no more than two RFEs for the same pre-clinical MLS course or two different pre-clinical
MLS courses will be allowed. A third C- grade will result in dismissal from the program (see #14
below). Request forms may be obtained from the MLS Program Director.
13. All students must earn a “P” when evaluated for each of the Affective Behaviors/Professional
Characteristics in preclinical as well as clinical courses. An action plan will be used to remediate
deficiencies. Failure to remediate deficient characteristics as prescribed by the action plan and to
“meet” minimum professional standards will result in dismissal from the program.
14. A grade of “D” or less in the same pre-clinical MLS course twice or two different pre-clinical MLS
courses will result in dismissal from the program. Remaining in MLS courses after dismissal is not
recommended and is strongly discouraged. Permission to continue with selected courses may be
granted following counseling by the MLS program director. Consideration for readmission may be made
only upon written request to the Admissions Committee at its next scheduled meeting. Decisions will
be made on an individual basis, following evaluation of academic performance and professional
aptitude. The schedule for repeating students will be required to adhere to an out of sequence
curriculum that will be selected to reduce cognitive decay prior to clinical rotations and the BOC
examination.
This may result in the requirement to repeat and/or audit previously completed courses.
Positions in subsequent classes may not be held for students who are out of curriculum sequence if
enrollment numbers fill available course capacity.
15. Students who withdraw from any of the junior year courses after acceptance into the program, will
forfeit the right to the next scheduled rotations.
16. Students may at any time request an advisor to document in writing, with the use of the counseling
record, any statement made as to requirements, courses he or she desires to challenge or to have
substituted. Documentation may also be requested for anything outside of the advising process,
including complaints. The counseling record form will become a permanent part of the student’s file.
17. It is the student’s responsibility to frequently check CANVAS and ODU email for announcements
pertaining to the program.
* Continuance Committee consists of full time MLS faculty and any instructor involved in the relevant
coursework.
Clinical Practicum Courses, Attendance, Continuance, and Grade Requirements
1. Required placement in clinical internships/practica will be dependent upon meeting the specific health
and immunization as well as background check requirements of affiliated institutions.
2. Internships/practica will be assigned by the Program Director and Education Coordinator as they
become available and may be made for evening, night, as well as day shifts. Student learning
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 42
experiences in clinical practicum courses are performed under the supervision of a preceptor. Student
learning experiences, however, are not substituted for the work of the staff. Service work performed by
students outside of academic hours is not required or permitted to fulfill practicum requirements.
3. Internships/practica assignments will be made on a priority basis, i.e., preference will be given to those
students who are ready for graduation immediately upon completion of practicum courses. In case of a
shortage of clinical sites, assignments will be made based on academic performance, centered
on cognitive, psychomotor as well as affective behaviors. Every effort will be made to avoid a
delay of scheduled graduation dates.
4. Students may be required to attend several different clinical sites. Transportation is the student’s
responsibility. Internships/practica may be local or at distant sites. Newly acquired clinical sites may
require relocation for the assignment period.
5. Students may be removed at any time from any rotation or from the program itself for any willful
infraction of any university, departmental, program or hospital policy.
6. Students’ performance during clinical rotations will be graded on theory, technical skills, and
professional characteristics according to the following percentages and Practicum Grading Scale:
Written Exams: 50%
Technical Skills: 50%
Professional Characteristics: Pass/Fail
A 90-100%
B 83-90%
C 76-82%
D 65-75%
F Below 65%
All clinical competencies must be met. An action plan will be used to remediate deficiencies.
7. Students must attain a passing grade of at least a "C" in the written and practical areas and a “P” on the
affective behaviors/professional characteristics area of the clinical courses evaluation in order to
successfully complete the courses. An action plan will be used to remediate any deficiencies that occur
during the rotation in each area of evaluation. A grade of “D” or below in the written and practical areas
will require you to repeat that clinical course at the convenience of our clinical affiliates. There is no
guarantee that the rotation can be repeated in the same semester or any other semester if none is
available. A grade of “D” or “F” will require you to re-register for the course.
All students must earn a “P” when evaluated for each of the affective behaviors/professional
characteristics in clinical courses. Failure to remediate deficient characteristics as prescribed by the
action plan will result in dismissal from the program.
8. If you fail a rotation course you will be placed in an inactive status and reassigned that rotation only if
one becomes available. Students in good standing will be given priority when assignments are made.
9. If you fail a rotation you will be required to re-register for it and pay full tuition again.
10. A grade below a “D” in the same rotation course twice or two different rotation courses will result in
permanent dismissal from the program.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 43
11. Students are expected to attend and complete all assigned clinical rotations. Students will be
automatically suspended from the program for failure to appear for a clinical rotation or for withdrawing
from a clinical rotation without authorization from the clinical instructor and MLS Program Director.
Emergency circumstances will be evaluated by the Program Director.
12. Students desiring to challenge any clinical rotation must declare their intent to do so in writing to the
MLS Program Director or Clinical Coordinator within the first week of the semester preceding the start
of their clinical rotation and must abide by the formal challenge policy.
Graduation Requirements
1. Students must meet the university’s writing requirement, which is a grade of C (2.0) or better in
ENGL 110C, and a C (2.0) or better in ENGL 211C or 221C or 231C, and a C (2.0) or better in the
writing intensive W course (MLS 403W) of the major.
Failure to meet the writing requirements will jeopardize scheduled graduation dates and rotation
assignments.
2. Students are responsible for knowing what course requirements are needed in order to graduate. This
involves knowing what one’s catalog year is, reading that catalog, checking DegreeWorks, and knowing
all the university and departmental requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree in Medical
Laboratory Science.
3. MLS 457 (Medical Laboratory Science Seminar) is a required course for graduation. Students must
meet and complete all the requirements for this course, which include successfully passing a final
comprehensive exam in all the areas of Medical Laboratory Science with a minimum passing grade of
70%. The grade option for the course is P/F.
4. Students are responsible for meeting the university’s deadline for application for graduation.
Student Health, Malpractice and Background Checks
1. Clinical malpractice coverage is provided free of charge by the University for all Medical Laboratory
Science students registered in practicum courses.
2. Students are responsible for their own health care coverage.
3. In the event of an injury or accident, a report must be made immediately to the supervising
faculty or clinical instructor, the MLS Program Director, and the Student Health Center. A
College of Health Sciences Incident Report must be completed and sent to the MLS Program
Director and the Student Health Center within 24 hours. If the injury or accident is one that
involves significant biohazard exposure, the protocol described in the MLS Student Handbook
is to be strictly followed. Emergency treatment for any injuries incurred during on-campus
laboratory or clinical course activities must be covered through the student's own insurance
plan or resources. Follow-up health care and testing is the student's responsibility.
4. Students are required to have a two-step PPD and other required immunizations prior to any clinical
experience. This includes the elective phlebotomy rotation as well as any other rotation. The PPD is
good for only 12 months and it is the student’s responsibility to see that it is redone annually
(QuantiFERON
®
-TB is now required by all Sentara locations instead of PPD). The testing may be
done at the Student Heath Center or by a physician of one’s choosing. In either case, it is the student’s
responsibility to see that a record of required immunizations is uploaded to the Immunization Tracker
located at www.castlebranch.com
. Failure to do so can negatively affect rotation assignments. Any
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 44
time lost from a rotation will be made up at the preceptor’s discretion. Student Practicum Handbook is
updated each year before summer to assure all immunization requirements are current. These
requirements may change after student has been accepted to the program.
5. Starting any clinical rotation course (including phlebotomy), without having previously registered for it,
will result in permanent dismissal from the program. Students must report all injuries that occur while in
on-campus labs or in clinical rotations to the designated instructor and request documentation of same.
6. Student’s must have on their person at all times, while in clinical rotation, proof of registration for that
rotation. This rule also applies to Phlebotomy rotation.
7. All students must obtain a criminal background check prior to entering clinical rotations. The
background check is obtained from www.castlebranch.com
. The results will be conveyed to the site
coordinator. Each student is responsible for keeping documentation of background checks up to date.
Students deemed unacceptable by a facility due to the results of a criminal background check forfeit
that assignment and will not be allowed to complete the program of study.
University Honor System
All students will be bound by the University Honor Code in all university courses and practicum courses.
All violations will be dealt with according to the University Honor System Policy and are subject to review by
the MLS Advisory Committee. The committee’s decision will be final with regard to program continuance.
Student Appeal Process
1. Academic and non-academic disciplinary actions may be appealed first to the Program Director and/or
the MLS Continuance Committee. An unfavorable decision may then be appealed to the Chair of the
School of Medical Diagnostic and Translational Sciences. In the event of an unfavorable decision by
the Chair, an appeal may be made to the MLS Advisory Committee. The committee’s decision will be
final.
All appeals must be submitted in writing. All appeals will be documented using written communication
and/or a counseling record form which will become part of the student’s permanent file.
2. Students must follow the Grade Appeals Policy and Procedures as outlined in the University Catalog.
Student Complaints
Student complaints not addressed above will be handled in the following manner:
1. Address the faculty involved; if no resolution is reached or the decision is unsatisfactory, then
2. Petition the Program Director and/or the MLS Continuance Committee; if no resolution is reached or the
decision is unsatisfactory, then
3. Petition the School Chair; if no resolution is reached or the decision is unsatisfactory, then
4. Petition, in writing, the MLS Advisory Committee whose recommendations will be final. All complaints will be
documented using written communication and/or a counseling record form which will become part of the
student’s permanent file.
5. If appropriate, the student may follow the steps outlined in Student Complaint Procedure in ODU Catalog.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 45
Admission Categories*
The following are conditions and requirements of acceptance:
A. Full Acceptance - student has met all requirements and was found acceptable after interview by the
MLS Advisory/Admissions Committee. The student must start MLS courses by the next fall term
following acceptance or relinquish their appointment for candidacy into the MLS Program.
B. C
onditional Acceptance - accorded to those students, after interview by the MLS Advisory/Admissions
Committee, who have not completed all freshman and sophomore prerequisites at the time of interview
or have marginal academic qualifications in one, but not more, of the stated standards. All deficiencies
must be met by the end of the summer term (with a grade of ≥“C”) following acceptance or they
relinquish their appointment to full candidacy within the MLS Program. Reapplication for admission to
the next class is required.
C. P
rovisional Deferred - (approved February 21, 1996) accorded those applicants without enough
credentials for proper evaluation by the Admissions Committee. These students may not be interviewed
and can be accorded this status by the MLS faculty board, that will outline a program of study for them.
This status implies no obligation on the part of the program to accept the student, even when all
obligations are met.
1. Provisional status will allow the student to declare Medical Laboratory Science as a major but
denies the individual admission to the clinical internships until formal acceptance is
granted after interview by the MLS Advisory /Admissions Committee. Provisional status
allows students a Medical Laboratory Science faculty advisor, who will mentor them until they
qualify for reapplication, or if warranted, advise them to seek another major.
2. Student may hold the provisional status only until the end of the following fall or spring semester
the status is granted. The student must undergo the entire admission process again, including
an interview by the MLS Advisory/Admissions Committee, in order to gain full acceptance.
3. Student must strictly comply with the program of study and specific conditions outlined by the
assigned Medical Laboratory Science faculty advisor. The student's reapplication eligibility
must include the assigned faculty advisor's recommendation for continuance.
*No pre-program student will be considered for admission who has earned less than a C in the
same Medical Laboratory Science course twice or in two different courses. Furthermore, no
obligation to either admit to the program or assign clinical rotations is owed to students who
continue to take MLS courses against advisor’s advice and/or without satisfying the
requirements for category A above.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 46
Program Policies Acknowledgement
I HAVE READ THE ABOVE AND UNDERSTAND THE POLICIES PRESENTED. I UNDERSTAND THAT
THIS SIGNATURE PAGE WILL BECOME A PERMANENT PART OF MY STUDENT FILE. I ALSO
UNDERSTAND THAT THESE POLICIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND THAT I WILL BE INFORMED
AND HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES.
I further agree to provide immediate notification of any change in address, phone number, or academic status
to the MLS Program Director.
I also grant permission for the release of my Criminal Background Check results to Clinical Affiliates prior to
assignment to a clinical rotation.
My Catalog Year Is
My Projected Date of Graduation Is
Month/Year
Student Name (Please Print)
Student Signature
UIN#
Current E-mail Address
Date
Advisor and/or witness present
(Signature)
Date
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 47
OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
College of Health Sciences
School of Medical Diagnostic and Translational Sciences
Medical Laboratory Science Program
CLINICAL COURSE POLICIES
THESE POLICIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. STUDENTS WILL BE INFORMED AND HELD
RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES.
As a student in the Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Program, I am aware of the following:
Attendance, Continuance, and Grade Requirements
1. Internships/practica will be assigned by the Program Director and Education Coordinator as they become
available and may be made for evening, night, as well as day shifts. Student learning experiences in
clinical practicum courses are performed under the supervision of a preceptor. Student learning
experiences, however, are not substituted for the work of the staff. Service work performed by students
outside of academic hours is not required or permitted to fulfill practicum requirements.
2. Internships/practica assignments will be made on a priority basis, i.e., preference will be given to those
students who are ready for graduation immediately upon completion of practicum courses. In case of a
shortage of clinical sites, assignments will be made based on academic performance, centered on
cognitive, psychomotor as well as affective behaviors. Every effort will be made to avoid a delay of
scheduled graduation dates.
3. Students may be required to attend several different clinical sites. Transportation is the student’s
responsibility. Internships/practica may be local or at distant sites. Newly acquired clinical sites may require
relocation for the assignment period.
4. The first day of each clinical course begins at variable times. After the first day you will be informed of the
regular starting time for the rest of that rotation. Clinical instructors welcome introductory calls from
students a week in advance of the starting date so that special instructions or directions can be conveyed.
5. Students must follow the hospital’s dress code at all times. Contact the site ahead of time to find out the
site’s dress requirements. Students are required to have visible, and on their person at all times, the
approved ODU badge.
6. All hospital personnel policies, rules, and regulations must be followed. Violations of hospital policies
constitutes grounds for suspension and/or dismissal from the program. Individual site policies will be
detailed during the first day.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 48
7. The amount of time required in each clinical course is basically inflexible. If you miss time for whatever
reason, it must be made up. This should be discussed and arranged with your instructor.
8. The objectives and competencies for each clinical course are enclosed in your student handbook and on
CANVAS. You are expected to be familiar with the objectives and to review notes from your preclinical
courses; a failing grade may jeopardize your continuance. Any perceived lack of preparation on your part,
by the clinical instructor, may prevent you from continuing in the rotation and possibly jeopardize
continuance in the MLS program.
9. While in rotations, students are to follow the site’s vacation policy and not that of the university.
10. If classes are canceled at ODU via official announcement due to inclement weather and your place of
residence and/or clinical site area are affected, you are not required to attend your rotation but must make
every effort to communicate with the clinical site so that they are aware of your absence. Your safety is the
priority. Some hospitals have their own internal policy stating that students cannot be in their rotation if the
University is officially closed, regardless of the reason.
11. All senior MLS students in the rotations are required to take and complete the MLS Seminar class (MLS
457) review exams as instructed.
12. Students must sign their evaluation forms at the end of each course. Signing does not imply that you agree
with everything on the evaluation. It simply means that you have seen it and read it. If you have concerns
over areas of the evaluation there is space provided to address this or you may follow the procedure
outlined in the “Student Appeal Process” section.
13. During any rotation you will be graded on theory, technical skills, and professional characteristics according
to the following percentages:
Written Exams 50%
Technical Skills 50%
Professional Characteristics P/F
All clinical competencies must be met. An action plan will be used to remediate deficiencies. The clinical
grading scale is as follows:
A 90-100%
B 83-89%
C 76-82%
D 65-75%
F Below 65%
14. You must obtain a passing grade of at least 76% in the graded areas of the evaluation in order to pass that
rotation. A grade of “D” or below in any of the two areas will require you to repeat that rotation at the
convenience of our clinical affiliates, if it can be rescheduled. There is no guarantee that the rotation can be
repeated that same semester or any other semester if none is available. A grade of “D” or “F” will require
you to re-register. All students must earn a “P” when evaluated for each of the Affective
Behaviors/Professional Characteristics in clinical courses. An action plan will be used to remediate
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 49
deficiencies that occur during the rotation. Failure to “meet” minimum standards will result in an “F” in the
course.
15. A grade below 76% in any of the two areas (theory, or technical), will result in a grade of “D” in the course.
A grade below 65% in any of the areas will result in a grade of “F”.
16. If you fail a rotation course you will be placed on an inactive status and reassigned that rotation the
following semester only if one becomes available. You, in turn, will be required to register for it and pay full
tuition again.
17. A second failure in the same rotation will result in dismissal from the program.
18. Failure of any two different rotations will result in dismissal from the program.
19. Please remember that you will be removed from any rotation, or from the program itself, for any willful
infraction of any university, departmental, or hospital policy including honor code violations.
20. Students will be suspended from the program for failure to appear for a rotation course without prompt and
proper notification, and/or permission of the Clinical Instructor and MLS Program Director.
21. Students will be suspended from the program for leaving a rotation without authorization from the Clinical
Instructor and Program Director.
22. Starting any clinical rotation course, without having previously registered for it, will result in permanent
dismissal from the program.
Student Health, Injury, and Malpractice
1. Clinical malpractice coverage is provided free of charge by the University for all Medical Laboratory
Science Students registered for rotation courses. You must have on your person at all times, while in the
clinical rotation, proof of registration for that rotation.
2. Students are required to have a two-step PPD and other required immunizations prior to any clinical
experience. This includes the elective phlebotomy rotation as well as any other rotation. The PPD is good
for only 12 months, and it is the student’s responsibility to see that it is redone annually (QuantiFERON
®
-
TB is now required by all Sentara locations instead of PPD). The testing may be done at the Student
Heath Center or by a physician of one’s choosing. In either case, it is the student’s responsibility to see that
a record of required immunizations is uploaded to the Immunization Tracker located at
www.castlebranch.com
. Failure to do so can negatively affect rotation assignments. Any time lost from a
rotation will be made up at the preceptor’s discretion. Student Practicum Handbook is updated each year
before summer to assure all immunization requirements are current. These requirements may change after
student has been accepted to the program.
3. In the event of an injury or accident, a report must be made immediately to the supervising faculty
or clinical instructor, the MLS Program Director, and the Student Health Center. A College of Health
Sciences Incident Report must be completed and sent to the MLS Program Director and the Student
Health Center within 24 hours. If the injury or accident is one that involves significant biohazard
exposure, the protocol described in the MLS Student Handbook is to be strictly followed.
Emergency treatment for any injuries incurred during on-campus laboratory or clinical course
activities must be covered through the student's own insurance plan or resources. Follow-up
health care and testing is the student's responsibility. See the Student Handbook for specific steps
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 50
to take in the event of a significant biohazard exposure.
4. All students must obtain a criminal background check prior to entering clinical rotations. The background
check is obtained from CastleBranch.com. The results will be conveyed to the site preceptor. Each student
is responsible for keeping documentation of background checks up to date. Students deemed
unacceptable by a facility due to the results of a criminal background check forfeit that assignment and will
not be allowed to complete the program of study.
University Honor System
All Students shall be bound by the University Honor Code in all University courses and clinical rotations. All
violations will be dealt with according to the University Honor System Policy and are subject to review by the
MLS Advisory Committee. The committee’s decision will be final with regard to Program continuance.
Student Appeal Process
Academic and non-academic problems or issues arising in any clinical course should be handled using the
following procedure:
a. Discuss with Clinical Instructor.
b. Discuss with Education Coordinator/Clinical Liaison at the involved hospital/healthcare facility.
c. Discuss with ODU MLS Program Education Coordinator and, if needed, with Program Director.
Note: In no case should the Program Director be involved unless the student has already followed
steps a and b.
d. If the problem cannot be resolved at any of the above levels, students may utilize the formal procedure
outlined in the MLS Program Policies.
Note: All appeals will be documented using written communication and/or a counseling record form,
which will become part of the student’s permanent file.
Student Complaints
Student complaints not addressed above will be handled in the following manner:
a. Address the clinical faculty involved; if no resolution is reached or the decision is satisfactory then
b. Petition the Education Coordinator/Liaison at the involved facility; if no resolution is reached or the decision
is unsatisfactory then.
c. Petition ODU MLS Program Education Coordinator and, if needed, the Program Director.
Note: In no case should the Program Director be involved unless the student has already followed
steps a and b.
d. If the problem cannot be resolved at any of the above levels, students may utilize the formal procedure
outlined in the MLS Program Policies.
e. If appropriate, the student may follow the steps outlined in Student Complaints Procedure in the University
Catalog.
Note: All appeals will be documented using written communication and/or a counseling record form,
which will become part of the student’s permanent file.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 51
Clinical Course Policies Acknowledgment
I HAVE READ THE ABOVE AND UNDERSTAND THE POLICIES PRESENTED. I UNDERSTAND THAT
THIS SIGNATURE PAGE WILL BECOME A PERMANENT PART OF MY STUDENT FILE. I ALSO
UNDERSTAND THAT THESE POLICIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND THAT I WILL BE INFORMED
AND HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CHANGES.
Note: late summer 2022, the Program started using the Trajecsys online platform document time spent on site,
completion of competencies, etc. Students entering clinical rotations in summer 2023 will be provided access
information in May. If your preceptor prefers paper documentation, you may continue using the printed forms
included in the handbook so that clinical instructor, manager, or institutional liaison may transfer information
online at their convenience. There will be no cost to the student during implementation year (summer/fall 2022)
or for the summer/fall 2023 cohort.
I further agree to provide immediate notification of any change in address, phone number, or academic status
to the MLS Program Director.
I also grant permission for the release of my Criminal Background Check results to Clinical Affiliates prior to
assignment to a clinical rotation.
My Catalog Year Is
My Projected Date of Graduation Is
Month/Year
Student Name (Please Print)
Student Signature
UIN#
Current E-mail Address
Date
Advisor and/or witness present
(Signature)
Date
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 52
Appendix B
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 53
Old Dominion University
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE PROGRAM
MLS 322 PHLEBOTOMY INTERNSHIP
Note: This elective course is designed for Medical Laboratory Science students, as well as students not
declared as MLS majors who meet prerequisite requirements.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
A 100 to 120-hour clinical internship for those desiring to qualify for PBT(ASCP) certification exam.
Prerequisites: MLS 320
. (2 credit hours).
GOAL
Students will practically apply phlebotomy didactic knowledge in clinical setting at an assigned facility affiliated
with Old Dominion University using behavioral objectives designed to assess skills and characteristics relevant
to blood collection.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Barbara Kraj, PhD, MLS(ASCP)
CM
, MB
CM
, ODU MLS program director: [email protected] ; phone: 757-683-6039;
fax: 757-683-5028
RECOMMENDED TEXTBOOK: As in MLS 320
Schaub, D. L. M., & Strasinger, S. K. (2016). Blood collection: A short course. F.A. Davis Company.
Free access found at: https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/odu/detail.action?docID=4453349
EXPECTATIONS
Expectations of the following behaviors are the same as outlined for preclinical courses (see MEDT 320
syllabus as an example) unless superseded by the clinical site policies.
Attendance
Communication
Preparation
Conduct
Honor Code
BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES
Cognitive/Psychomotor: provided in a separate “MLS 322 Objectives/Evaluation Form”.
Affective: 1-12 must be “MET” or exceeded according to established evaluation guidelines.
POLICY COMPLIANCE
1. Demonstrate an appreciation for the value and necessity of maintaining an orderly and safe laboratory
environment by adhering to OSHA safety regulations, program and facility safety policies, and to
practices outlined by the instructor.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 54
2. Display professional/workplace responsibility by adhering to guidelines and policies outlined by the
program, individual courses, and affiliated clinical facilities.
PROMPTNESS/ATTENDANCE
3. Develop the highly valued professional characteristic of maintaining a blemish free attendance and
punctuality record by reporting to classes, laboratories, and assigned clinical sites on time, notifying
instructors/supervisors promptly when absence is anticipated and meeting all established deadlines.
INITIATIVE
4. Display appropriate initiative and motivation in all academic and practical performances by completing
both assigned and unsolicited tasks satisfactorily, addressing problems or interferences appropriately.
RESPONSIBILITY
5. Demonstrate an appreciation of the role of active participation in the education process by displaying
preparedness and engagement in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical learning environments.
6. Display professional responsibility by accepting direction, adapting to the learning environment, and
completing required assignments as outlined.
RELIABILITY
7. Demonstrate the ability to maintain intellectual and emotional stability and maturity under stress, by
producing results that meet appropriate performance standards.
8. Demonstrate, by attitude and performance, an appreciation of the value and importance of procedural
consistency and technical accuracy and precision.
PROFESSIONAL /WORKPLACE DEMEANOR
9. Display appropriate professional/workplace decorum during both the preclinical and clinical phases of
the program by complying with the guidance, instructions, and direction outlined by faculty and clinical
preceptors/mentors.
10. Comply with accepted rules of conventional professional/workplace behavior during both the preclinical
and clinical phases of the program by exhibiting a cooperative, respectful, and collegial demeanor in
interactions with faculty, classmates, clinical preceptors/mentors, and patients.
INTEGRITY
11. Display, through appropriate professional/workplace behavior and performance, recognition and
respect for honest laboratory testing, patient confidentiality, and high quality patient outcomes.
12. Comply with the Old Dominion University Honor Code by submitting only work which is the
product of one’s own effort (I pledge... to be noted on submitted work).
A grade of "P" must be attained on the Professional Characteristics Evaluation form, with all behavioral criteria
met or exceeded. A grade of "F" will be assigned if all behavioral criteria are not met.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 55
EVALUATION
Students are evaluated on 20 objectives listed in the Objective Evaluation Form using scores 1-5 defined as
follows:
5= Above average
4= Average
3= Acceptable
2=Below average
1=Unacceptable
Student’s final score (calculated as sum of all scores achieved on objectives 1-20) is divided by 20 (or by the
number of items on the list not assigned an N/A) and the following scale is used to assign the final course
grade:
Letter Grade Average Scale Score
A 4.5-5.0
B 4.0-4.4
C 3.2-3.9
D 2.1-3.1
F <2.0
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Reasonable accommodations are provided for student with disabilities. Students should self-identify to the
instructor as early in the semester as possible in order to establish an accommodation process through the
Office of Educational Accessibility
.
INFORMATION ABOUT PBT(ASCP) CERTIFICATION
Students who successfully complete both MLS 320 and 322 are eligible to apply for PBT(ASCP) certification
via Route #2: https://www.ascp.org/content/board-of-certification/get-credentialed
Note that completion of both: at least 100 hours AND 100 successful venipuncture is the condition qualifying
for certification. Students meeting only one of the two conditions, may pass the class but will not be allowed to
apply for certification.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 56
OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE PROGRAM
MLS 322 – PHLEBOTOMY INTERNSHIP OBJECTIVES/EVALUATION FORM
STUDENT NAME:
Students enrolled in MLS 322 are evaluated using the rubric below after 100 hours of blood drawing
experience in the clinical setting, including a minimum performance of 100 successful, unaided blood
collections including venipunctures and skin punctures.
EVALUATION SCORES:
5= Above average
4= Average
3= Acceptable
2=Below average
1=Unacceptable
♦ Please comment on any individual score lower than a 3.
Clinical Objective
Score
Comments
1.Correctly identifies and evaluates requests for specimen
collection for laboratory analysis.
2. Recognizes and initiates the correction of any
discrepancy between a request for collection and the type
of specimen required for testing.
3. Accurately and efficiently completes all paperwork
associated with collection of the specimen test as
requested.
4. Displays knowledge of the proper order of blood
collection according to tube color.
5. Effectively greets patient and identifies reason for being
there.
6. Effectively and appropriately communicates with the
patient or the patient’s guardian regarding the collection
procedure.
7. Completely and accurately identifies the patient on whom
the test are requested.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 57
8. Selects all materials required for proper and efficient
collection of the specimen.
9. Correctly applies tourniquet and locates vein for
venipuncture.
10. Using aseptic techniques, correctly prepares the
collection site.
11. Efficiently and properly collects the specimen.
12. Efficiently and properly administers post-collection care.
13. Correctly disposes of biohazardous waste and sharps in
appropriate containers.
14. Recognizes and provides for control of adverse
reactions during and immediately following specimen
collection.
15. With 100% accuracy identifies, labels, and completes all
paperwork required for proper distribution and
processing of the specimens.
16. Expresses gratitude to the patient and/or others
involved in obtaining the specimens.
17. Distributes specimens to proper individuals or sections
for processing.
18. Observes and practices those techniques required by
the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen Standard and
institution specific infection control.
19. Demonstrates proper technique in finger and/or heel
sticks.
20. Demonstrates the proper isolation techniques for any
of the following as requested by the instructor:
a. Strict Isolation
b. Respiratory Isolation
c. Enteric Isolation
d. Protective Isolation
e. Wound and Skin Isolation
The following tasks are not required but are optional as time and location permit:
1. Point of Care \ Bedside Testing
2. Glucose Tolerance Testing
3. Collection of Blood Cultures
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 58
A Professional Behavior Evaluation Form (included in Student Handbook) will be completed at the
end of the rotation with the assignment of a grade of Pass or Fail (P\F). A grade of “P” must be
attained on the Professional Evaluation with all behavioral criteria met or exceeded in order to pass
the clinical phlebotomy rotation.
Student’s Final Number Score (add numbers in Score Column) =
Average Scale Score (Final number score divided by 20) =
Professional Evaluation =
Final Letter Grade =
Grading Scale:
Letter Grade Average Scale Score
A 4.5-5.0
B 4.0-4.4
C 3.2-3.9
D 2.1-3.1
F <2.0
INSTRUCTOR’S NAME and SIGNATURE: __Date
STUDENT’S SIGNATURE : ______________Date
COMMENTS: _________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
Clinical instructors please complete: Return all forms to: Barbara Kraj at [email protected]
• THIS Form (PHLEBOTOMY INTERNSHIP
OBJECTIVES/EVALUATION
• Professional Characteristics Form
Note: For MLS 322 during summer/fall 2023 Trajecsys
is NOT available (use paper forms)
Please sign Time Attendance Log
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 59
OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE PROGRAM
MLS 322 CLINICAL TIME AND ATTENDANCE LOG
Students enrolled in MLS 322 are evaluated using the OBJECTIVES/EVALUATION FORM after 100 hours of
blood drawing experience in the clinical setting, including a minimum performance of 100 successful, unaided
blood collections including venipunctures and skin punctures.
STUDENT NAME: _______________________________________________________
DATE
TIME IN
TIME OUT
Number of
successful
draws
INSTRUCTOR’S SIGNATURE
AND CLINICAL SITE
This log must be submitted by the student to Old Dominion University Medical Laboratory Science Program
Director, Barbara Kraj, PhD, MLS(ASCP)
CM
MB
CM
at bkraj@odu.edu
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 60
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
MLS 404
CLINICAL HEMATOLOGY PRACTICUM
COURSE DIRECTOR: Rachel Childs, M.S, MLS(ASCP)
CM
E-MAIL: rchilds@odu.edu
TEXTBOOKS: McKenzie and Williams: Clinical Hematology. 4th edition. Pearson
Supplemental material: Carr, J. & Rodak, B. (2016). Clinical hematology atlas. 5
th
ed.
Saunders/Elsevier.
Note: Additional references are available at the clinical site.
CREDIT HOURS - 4
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Direct clinical experience offered in automated and manual hematology procedures used in distinguishing blood
dyscrasias and coagulation abnormalities.
GOAL
Students will perform basic hematology/hemostasis laboratory procedures in a clinical setting, correlate laboratory results
with specific hematologic and non-hematologic disease states, and understand the operation and full scope of services
provided in a clinical hematology laboratory.
Expectations of the following behaviors are the same as outlined for preclinical courses unless superseded by
Clinical Course policies.
Attendance
Communication
Preparation
Conduct
Honor Code
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Reasonable accommodations are provided for student with disabilities. Students should self-identify to the instructor as
early in the semester as possible in order to establish an accommodation process. See accessibility site:
http://www.odu.edu/educationalaccessibility
I INTRODUCTION
Clinical Hematology Practicum is a four-week, hospital-based course designed to follow MLS 311/312 (Hematology
lecture and lab), MLS 327 (Hemostasis lecture & lab), and MLS 337 (Advanced Hematology lecture & lab), which are
based at the University. The course is specifically intended to develop new practice-oriented skills and to refine
previously acquired technical skills in the performance and interpretation of hematology and coagulation tests. Students
are expected to enter this course well versed in theory and with basic knowledge of the technical aspects of a clinical
hematology laboratory. At the completion of this course students will be able to demonstrate the competencies that
should be possessed by an entry-level laboratory scientist in a typical hematology laboratory. A pre-test will be
administered prior to attending this practicum.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 61
II COMPETENCIES
A. Operationalize mechanisms for the procurement, processing, and analysis of hematologic specimens.
B. Perform standard hematology and hemostasis analyses, automated and manual, on blood, plasma, and other
body fluids.
C. Demonstrate accurate morphologic identification skills.
D. Recognize discrepant results, using relevant numerical, morphologic, and interlaboratory data.
E. Institute solutions or corrective actions for problems related to verification of abnormal results, quality control data,
and quality assurance issues.
F. Initiate and perform preventative maintenance, identify equipment and instrument problems, and institute
corrective action.
G. Utilize computer-based technology for input and retrieval of data and instrument operation.
H. Research and develop a relevant hematology topic and deliver a presentation to department colleagues.
I. Demonstrate professional characteristics and conduct with laboratory personnel, other health care
professionals, and patients.
III BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES
Cognitive/Psychomotor
After completing this clinical practicum course, studying assigned materials, procedures and methodologies,
and performing assigned tasks, the student will be able to demonstrate an overall achievement of ≥76% on
written and practical evaluations with
± 10% accuracy on practical evaluations.
A. General
The student will be able to:
1.
Process specimens including distribution to proper work areas, maintaining accession of specimens, and, with
supervision, verifying completion and reporting of results, as institutional protocol dictates.
2.
Identify precautions and/or special handling techniques for particular procedure requests.
3.
Inspect and evaluate quality and suitability of the specimen for the request analysis.
4.
Identify factors that contribute to pre-analytical, analytical & post-analytical variability.
5.
Select the appropriate dilution, kit, and/or reagents as needed for particular assays, and determine appropriate
substitutes for unavailable supplies.
6.
Identify sources of biohazard, employing appropriate safeguards.
7.
Recognize unsafe laboratory practices.
8.
Perform computer related functions where applicable, including data input, retrieval and instrument operation.
9.
Identify stages of blood cells in each cell line.
10. Identify/describe normal and abnormal (shape, size, color, inclusion) cells in each cell line.
11. Correlate numerical hematologic data with morphology.
12. Apply appropriate calculations in blood and body fluid analyses.
13. Identify coagulation factors and hemostatic components measured in each procedure.
14. Explain the INR, its calculation, use, therapeutic and diagnostic advantage.
15. Interpret ratios and results for the purpose of selecting therapeutic dosages.
16. Compare the criteria used to classify leukemias and other hematologic diseases, including the FAB and WHO
systems.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 62
17. Identify tests/findings used to make definitive cell and disease identification, including cytochemical stains, surface
and cytoplasmic markers, chromosomal and molecular abnormalities.
18. Demonstrate affective behavior/professional characteristics and conduct by achieving a “met” or “exceeded” for
each at terminal evaluation.
B. Specific
The student will be able to:
1. Perform the following analyses according to prescribed methodology. Must be completed with accuracy of ± 10%.
Required Tests Number of Specimens
a. Platelets counts - estimated & performed 10
b. Erythrocyte sedimentation rates 10
c. Preparation of blood smears for routine differentials 20
d. Complete blood smear examination - normal 50
e. Complete blood smear examination - abnormal 50
f. Histogram/scattergram interpretation 50
g. Prothrombin Times/INRs 25
h. Activated Partial Thromboplastin Times 25
i. Fibrinogen assay 3
j. D-dimers 3
k. Body fluids (counts/microsc. eval. - var. sources) 10
2. Perform the following optional tests from the list below:
Optional Tests
a. Bone marrow slide preparation
b. Buffy coat differential
c. Hematocrits
d. Preparation of blood smears for routine differentials on newborns
g. Thrombin time
h. Protamine sulfate
i. Factor assays
j. Bleeding time (automated)
k. Glucose -6- phosphate dehydrogenase
l. Hemoglobin
m. Flow Cytometry - CD4/CD8
n. Activated Protein C - Factor V Leiden
o. Protein C - Functional & Ag.
p. Protein S - Activity & Ag
q. Eosinophil counts
r. Platelet Aggregation Studies
s. Ristocetin Co-factor
t. Kleihauer-Betke stain
u. Manual reticulocyte counts (staining and counting)
v. Sickle cell screening tests
3. For each of the performed test procedures in 1 and 2 above, identify the reference range.
4. Calibrate and operate the following instruments following the standard protocol.
a. Multi-parameter hematology analyzer.
b. Slide stainer
c. Microscope
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 63
d. Coagulation instrumentation
i. automated
ii. semi-automated
5. Explain the principle of operation of all methods and instrumentation including mode of analysis, and substance
measured.
6. Identify errors (pre-analytical, analytical, and post analytical) in performed procedures including those due to
technique, reagents, mechanical malfunction, etc.
7. Isolate and identify errors due to sample, reagents, instrument malfunction, or physical causes.
8. Identify/follow established quality control procedures including the development of a Levy Jennings chart.
9. Recognize and identify the basic criteria of a good quality assurance program.
10. Validate the accuracy of test results based on an assessment of obtained quality control values.
11. Evaluate situations where the control samples are inside/outside of acceptable limits and prescribe corrective
actions, where appropriate, using established criteria and applicable statistical measures.
12. Demonstrate knowledge of the chemical and physical principles utilized in test performances.
13. Assess the clinical significance of obtained test results.
14. Correlate normal and abnormal hematologic and coagulation data with other clinical and/or laboratory findings in
the identification of specific disease states.
15. Given clinical, morphologic, numerical, cytochemical, and molecular data, identify/suggest specific hematologic or
coagulation disease state.
16. Suggest additional tests that may be used to aid in making definitive diagnoses.
Affective:
1-12 must be “MET” or exceeded according to established evaluation guidelines.
POLICY COMPLIANCE
1. Demonstrate an appreciation for the value and necessity of maintaining an orderly and safe laboratory
environment by adhering to OSHA safety regulations, program and facility safety policies, and to practices
outlined by the instructor.
2. Display professional/workplace responsibility by adhering to guidelines and policies outlined by the program,
individual courses, and affiliated clinical facilities.
PROMPTNESS/ATTENDANCE
3. Develop the highly valued professional characteristic of maintaining a blemish free attendance and punctuality
record by reporting to classes, laboratories, and assigned clinical sites on time, notifying instructors/supervisors
promptly when absence is anticipated and meeting all established deadlines.
INITIATIVE
4. Display appropriate initiative and motivation in all academic and practical performances by completing both
assigned and unsolicited tasks satisfactorily, addressing problems or interferences appropriately.
RESPONSIBILITY
5. Demonstrate an appreciation of the role of active participation in the education process by displaying
preparedness and engagement in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical learning environments.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 64
6. Display professional responsibility by accepting direction, adapting to the learning environment, and completing
required assignments as outlined.
RELIABILITY
7. Demonstrate the ability to maintain intellectual and emotional stability and maturity under stress, by producing
results that meet appropriate performance standards.
8. Demonstrate, by attitude and performance, an appreciation of the value and importance of procedural consistency
and technical accuracy and precision.
PROFESSIONAL /WORKPLACE DEMEANOR
9. Display appropriate professional/workplace decorum during both the preclinical and clinical phases of the
program by complying with the guidance, instructions, and direction outlined by faculty and clinical
preceptors/mentors.
10. Comply with accepted rules of conventional professional/workplace behavior during both the preclinical and
clinical phases of the program by exhibiting a cooperative, respectful, and collegial demeanor in interactions with
faculty, classmates, clinical preceptors/mentors, and patients.
INTEGRITY
11. Display, through appropriate professional/workplace behavior and performance, recognition and respect for
honest laboratory testing, patient confidentiality, and high quality patient outcomes.
12. Comply with the Old Dominion University Honor Code by submitting only work which is the product of
one’s own effort (I pledge... to be noted on submitted work).
An Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Evaluation Form will be used to evaluate each student at the end
of the full rotation with the assignment of a grade of Pass or Fail (P/F).
A grade of "P" must be obtained on the Professional Evaluation with all behavioral criteria met or exceeded. A grade of
"F" will be assigned if all behavioral criteria are not met.
IV WRITTEN/ORAL ASSIGNMENT
The student will be able to:
1. Prepare an organized paper and presentation on an appropriate topic (assigned or selected) that represents the
outcome of scholarly efforts such as literature research, special projects or case history/study analysis.
2. Deliver an inservice to staff on an assigned or selected topic utilizing guidelines and principles of professional
presentations obtained in pre-clinical and senior courses.
V. EVALUATION
Grade percentages: 50% Written/Oral 50% Technical/Practical
A minimum grade of "C" based on the following scale must be attained in each of the above areas:
A 90-100
B 83-89
C 76-82
D 65-75
F Below 65
Competencies:
Students must meet or exceed all competencies (See Competency Task List on the following pages).
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 65
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
MLS 404 Clinical Hematology Practicum Competency Task List
Student Name:
Clinical Site:
Evaluator(s):
Clinical instructors please complete: THIS Task List Form, Grade Form, Affective
Behavior/Professional Characteristics Form and Oral Presentation Evaluation Form
Complete all forms in Trajecsys or (if technical issues arise) return via email to
Rachel Childs at
For each of the required tasks/competencies listed below, please indicate in the appropriate column the student’s degree
of performance and level (C or CE) for each task. Refer to the performance requirements under “Required Tests”
Practicum Syllabus. Also, for each optional task performed (see “Optional Tests” in the Practicum Syllabus), complete the
form in the spaces provided.
C = Competent (entry-level) = successfully completes the assigned task to the degree indicated
CE = entry-level competence exceeded
The student must be competent (performance “Met” or “Exceeded”) in all required tasks.
Required Tasks
(
±
10%)
Minimum
Number
Performance
Evaluation
C or CE
Comments:
Required for all tasks
evaluated as CE
Not
Met
Met
Exceeded
Platelet Counts, est. &
performed
10
ESR
10
Prep. of Bld. Smears
20
Complete Blood Smear
Examination (including
differentials) - Normal
50
Complete Blood Smear
Examination (including
differentials) - Abnormal
50
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 66
Scattergram and
Histogram
Interpretation
50
Prothrombin times/INR
25
Activated Partial
Thromboplastin Times
25
Fibrinogen Assay
3
D-Dimers
3
Body Fluids Exam.
(counts & microscopics)
10 (var.
sources)
Optional Tests (
±
10%) Perform/Observe tests on the optional list below.
Performed (P)/Observed (O)
Met
Exceeded
Bone marrow slide
preparation
Sugar water test
Ham's test
Buffy coat differential
Hematocrits
Preparation of blood
smears for routine
differentials on
newborns
Thrombin time
Protamine sulfate
Factor assay
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 67
Bleeding time
(automated)
Glucose -6-PD
Hemoglobin
FCM - CD4/CD8
Activated Protein C-
Factor V Leiden
Protein C - Function &
Ag.
Eosinophil counts
Platelet Aggregation
Ristocetin Co-factor
Kleihauer-Betke stain
Reticulocytes (staining
& counting)
Sickle Cell Screening
Other Tests
Identify reference
range for each of the
above
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 68
Select appropriate
supplies for assays
Identify/validate
specimens
Employ safe
laboratory practices
Perform computer
related functions
Calibrate/Operate the following instruments according to standard protocol.
Multiparameter
Hematology Analyzer
Slide Stainer
Microscope
Automated
Coagulation
Instrumentation
Semi-automated
Coagulation
Instrumentation
Explain the principle
of operation of the
above
Identify/isolate/
troubleshoot
procedural errors
Identify normal and
abnormal blood cells
Apply appropriate
calculations/correlate
data
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 69
Demonstrate the
ability to recognize
analytical errors
Identify/follow QC/QA
procedures
Validate accuracy of
test results
Prescribe appropriate
action when controls
are unacceptable
Assess clinical
significance of test
results
Correlate data,
identify specific
disease states
Suggest additional
tests for definitive
diagnoses
Clinical instructors please complete:
• THIS MLS 404 Clinical Microbiology Task List
• Grade Form
• Oral Presentation Form and Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Form (be sure to
review with student(s) and have student(s) sign).
Complete all forms in Trajecsys or (if technical issues arise) return via email to Rachel Childs at
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 70
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science
MLS 406
CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY PRACTICUM
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Direct clinical experience offered in isolating and identifying human pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, viruses
and parasites from various clinical specimens.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Angela M. Wilson, M(ASCP): [email protected]
GOAL
Students will apply knowledge obtained during microbiology, bacteriology as well as parasitology/mycology
virology didactic courses in clinical setting and accurately interpret clinical data pertinent to microbial disease
diagnosis.
Expectations of the following behaviors are the same as outlined for preclinical courses unless
superseded by Clinical Course Policies:
Attendance
Communication Skills
Preparation
Conduct
Honor Code
I. INTRODUCTION
Clinical Microbiology (MLS 406) is a 5-credit hour clinical rotation at an affiliated local hospital. All students will
cover pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical aspects of testing during their clinical microbiology
laboratory rotation. As of 2022 all students will complete part of Clinical Microbiology Practicum in the ODU
Clinical Microbiology Practicum Simulation Lab. Specific subjects covered in the simulation lab include:
Anaerobic Bacteriology
Mycobacteriology
Mycology
Parasitology
Microscopy
Molecular testing (use additional check list provided on-site)
Specific subjects covered at an affiliated hospital clinical site include:
• Routine Bacteriology
• Virology
• Serology
• Microscopy
• Molecular testing
The student is expected to enter the rotation with a basic knowledge of the theory of laboratory isolation and
identification of the microorganisms in each specific subject area. This information is taught in the University
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 71
courses MLS 307, 308, 309, 319, 339, and 340.
A minimum grade of “C” based on the following scale must be obtained in all listed areas.
A 90-100
B 83-89
C 76-82
D 65-75
F below 65
A Clinical Professional Evaluation form will be completed by the clinical site instructor at the end of the student
rotation with the assignment of a grade of PASS or FAIL (P/F). A grade of “P” must be attained on the
Professional Evaluation with all behavioral criteria met or exceeded.
References
1. Mahon, C.R., Lehman, D.C., & Manuselis, G. (2015). Textbook of diagnostic microbiology. (5th ed.).
Philadelphia, PA: W.B. Saunders Co.
3. Leventhal, R. & Cheadle, R.F. (2020). Medical parasitology: A self-instructional text. (7
th
ed.).
Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis Co.
4. Kern, M. E. & K. S. Blevins. (1997). Medical mycology: A self-instructional text.
(2nd ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F. A. Davis Co. (or the newest edition available)
COMPETENCIES
A. Operationalize mechanisms for the procurement, processing, and analysis of microbiological specimens.
B. Demonstrate knowledge of procedure for handling improperly collected/handled specimens.
C. Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate media used for each specimen type.
D. Demonstrate proper inoculation, isolation, and quantitation techniques for microbiology specimens.
E. Perform and interpret Gram stains.
F. Identify colonial characteristics of normal flora and pathogens from various body sites.
G. Identify specific isolates based on Gram stain, microscopic morphology, colonial morphology, and
biochemical reactions for clinically significant microorganisms.
H. State principle, perform and interpret the differential biochemical tests used in the microbiology laboratory.
I. Determine the appropriate environmental conditions for each type of specimen plated.
J. Discuss the theory and perform any rapid identification tests used in the specific laboratory.
K. Perform serological procedures routinely used in the microbiology laboratory.
L. Process routine blood cultures.
M. Perform appropriate work-up procedure for positive blood cultures and other sterile body fluids.
N. State principle, perform and interpret antimicrobial susceptibility tests.
O. Draw correlations between the more commonly isolated organisms and their expected susceptibility
patterns.
P. State principle, and operation of any automated equipment used in the specific microbiology laboratory.
Q. Initiate and perform preventative maintenance, identify equipment and instrument problems, and institute
corrective action.
R. Perform quality assurance procedures on all equipment, media, and tests.
S. Demonstrate knowledge of safe work practices such as autoclave operation, specimen disposal, and
universal precautions. Utilize computer-based technology for input and retrieval of data and instrument
operation.
T. Demonstrate professional characteristics and conduct with laboratory personnel, other health care
professionals, and patients.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 72
BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES
Cognitive/Psychomotor
After completing this clinical practicum course, studying assigned materials, procedures and
methodologies, and performing assigned tasks, the student will be able to demonstrate an overall
achievement of ≥76% on written and practical evaluations.
A. General
The student should be able to:
1. Assist and advise medical personnel in the proper collection and transport of specimens.
2. Process all appropriate clinical specimens to ensure the optimal recovery and identification of
microorganisms.
3. Assist in bookkeeping, recording, reporting of results, and computer operation.
4. Perform appropriate quality control on all reagents, media, and equipment and how to initiate proper
corrective action for QC failure.
5. List criteria for evaluating specimen quality and solve problems arising from improper collection and/or
labeling.
6. Select the appropriate media and demonstrate proper inoculation and isolation procedures for
specimens submitted for microbiological analysis.
7. Determine the appropriate environmental conditions for each type of specimen plated.
8. Perform the various staining procedures (e.g. Gram, acridine orange, acid-fast, trichrome etc.) used in
the specific laboratory and correctly interpret the results.
9. Operate, maintain, and perform routine maintenance on all instruments and equipment.
10. Discuss the theory and perform any rapid identification tests used in the specific laboratory.
11. Identify those organisms established by hospital infection control as well as state and federal bureaus
which require notification.
12. Demonstrate safe techniques in handling the disposal of infectious materials according to laboratory
protocol.
B. Bacteriology
The student should be able to:
1. State the expected presence or absence of microbial flora from a given source.
2. Name the most likely pathogens from a given source.
3. Describe the procedures used for the quantitation of organisms isolated from routine cultures and urine
colony counts.
4. State the principles of any biochemical tests including disks, strips, and serological tests used in the
identification of an isolate.
5. Explain the significance of a positive blood culture, CSF, or other body fluid/tissue specimen.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 73
6. Discuss the susceptibility tests including Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion, MIC/MBC, beta-lactamase, and any
automated procedures.
7. Recognize the colony characteristics of pathogens and normal flora from the various body site
specimens submitted for analysis.
8. Identify significant isolates from specimens using the appropriate laboratory protocols.
9. Initiate the steps to be taken if an identification cannot be made (i.e. further testing, reference lab
submission, consultation with physician etc.).
10. Draw correlations between the more commonly isolated organisms and their susceptibility patterns
including the usual drugs of choice.
11. Recognize unusual resistance patterns and handle according to established protocol.
12. Discuss the value of testing body fluids for bacterial antigens.
13. Perform serologic testing for bacterial identification utilizing automated instruments and rapid testing
kits.
In addition, the student should be able to:
1. Discuss identification systems used in the specific laboratory.
2. Process routine blood cultures according to specific lab procedures.
3. Discuss any automated blood culture systems used in the specific laboratory.
4. Follow up a positive blood culture and CSF including notification and preliminary reporting procedures.
5. Discuss various molecular techniques.
6. Discuss specimen collection/integrity/processing employed in molecular diagnostic methodologies.
7. Identify instruments used in the performance of molecular methods.
8. Describe the principle of operation of each of the instruments.
9. Prepare test samples and controls for molecular analysis according to established guidelines.
10. Employ quality control/assurance measures related to molecular identification
methodologies.
11. Perform analyses as assigned by the instructor.
12. Interpret the results of each method as they relate to the presence or absence of microbes.
13. Discuss the sentinel microbiology laboratories’ role in the handling of suspected agents of bioterrorism.
Students are expected to rotate through the following areas of microbiology if the specific laboratory
offers such services:
C. Anaerobes
The student should be able to:
1. Discuss the basic principles of anaerobiosis.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 74
2. Process anaerobic cultures.
3. Set up the system used to create an anaerobic environment (GasPak, Bio-Bags, anaerobic chamber
etc.).
4. Discuss methods of anaerobic identification according to the specific laboratory.
5. Recognize potential pathogens by their gross morphology on special plating media.
D. Mycobacteriology
The student should be able to:
1. Differentiate the clinical agents of pulmonary and extrapulmonary mycobacterial disease.
2. Demonstrate precautions required in dealing with patients and / or specimens suspected of having
mycobacteria.
3. Discuss decontamination and concentration methods including advantages and disadvantages of each.
4. Discuss current mycobacterial identification technologies (ex. DNA probes).
5. Process TB specimens for reference labs for speciation and susceptibility testing.
6. Recognize a positive AFB culture.
7. State screening tests for mycobacteria including the procedures involved in speciation.
8. Discuss procedures involved in susceptibility testing and current recommendations for chemotherapy.
9. Identify the types of media used to culture mycobacteria.
10. Classify the Mycobacterium species according to the Runyon classification.
E. Mycology
The student should be able to
:
1. State the special safety considerations required in a mycology lab.
2. Perform a direct examination of a specimen using one of the following methods: saline wet mount,
LPCB wet mount, KOH prep, India ink, calcofluor white.
3. Discuss the fungal media used in the specific laboratory as well as incubation conditions.
4. Discuss three methods used to examine fungal cultures (slide culture, tease mount method, cellophane
tape method, coverslip sandwich technique) including the advantages and disadvantages of each and
perform one method.
5. Identify the macroscopic and microscopic morphology of various fungi.
6. Identify fungi using the laboratory’s standard operation procedure.
7. Evaluate the clinical significance of fungal isolates considering the source of the specimen and the
patient’s condition.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 75
F. Parasitology
The student should be able to:
1. Discuss the types of specimens required for parasite identification including those for malaria, intestinal
and tissue parasites.
2. Discuss the use of proper transport media including the advantages and disadvantages of the more
commonly used preservatives.
3. Discuss the purpose of the macroscopic exam and state the procedures used in the microscopic exam
including direct wet mounts, concentration methods, and permanent stains.
4. Perform a concentration procedure.
5. Prepare thick and thin blood films for the detection of blood parasites.
6. Discuss immunologic tests available for parasite detection (complement fixation, direct agglutination,
direct and indirect immunofluorescence, ELISA).
7. Discuss newer techniques for the diagnosis of parasitic diseases. (DNA probes, DNA restriction fragment
length polymorphisms (RFLP), flow cytometry, & PCR).
8. Discuss the parasites that would normally be found in the following: urine, stool, sputum, urogenital
tract, biopsy material, spinal fluid, perianal folds.
9. Identify the diagnostic stages for hemoflagellates, malaria, intestinal protozoa, helminths and recognize
pseudoparasites.
10. Discuss alternative stains for the detection of Cryptosporidium, Microspora, Pneumocystis, and
Cyclospora.
G. Virology and Chlamydiology
The student should be able to:
1. Discuss specimen collection and transport
2. Discuss various culture techniques.
3. List commonly isolated viruses.
4. Discuss rapid techniques available for viral testing.
5. Discuss specimen collection, transport, isolation and identification procedures for Chlamydia and
Mycoplasma/Ureaplasma.
Affective:
1-12 must be “MET” or exceeded according to established evaluation guidelines.
POLICY COMPLIANCE
1. Demonstrate an appreciation for the value and necessity of maintaining an orderly and safe laboratory
environment by adhering to OSHA safety regulations, program and facility safety policies, and to
practices outlined by the instructor.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 76
2. Display professional/workplace responsibility by adhering to guidelines and policies outlined by the
program, individual courses, and affiliated clinical facilities.
PROMPTNESS/ATTENDANCE
3. Develop the highly valued professional characteristic of maintaining a blemish free attendance and
punctuality record by reporting to classes, laboratories, and assigned clinical sites on time, notifying
instructors/supervisors promptly when absence is anticipated and meeting all established deadlines.
INITIATIVE
4. Display appropriate initiative and motivation in all academic and practical performances by completing
both assigned and unsolicited tasks satisfactorily, addressing problems or interferences appropriately.
RESPONSIBILITY
5. Demonstrate an appreciation of the role of active participation in the education process by displaying
preparedness and engagement in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical learning environments.
6. Display professional responsibility by accepting direction, adapting to the learning environment, and
completing required assignments as outlined.
RELIABILITY
7. Demonstrate the ability to maintain intellectual and emotional stability and maturity under stress, by
producing results that meet appropriate performance standards.
8. Demonstrate, by attitude and performance, an appreciation of the value and importance of procedural
consistency and technical accuracy and precision.
PROFESSIONAL /WORKPLACE DEMEANOR
9. Display appropriate professional/workplace decorum during both the preclinical
and clinical phases of the program by complying with the guidance, instructions,
and direction outlined by faculty and clinical preceptors/mentors.
10. Comply with accepted rules of conventional professional/workplace behavior
during both the preclinical and clinical phases of the program by exhibiting a
cooperative, respectful, and collegial demeanor in interactions with faculty,
classmates, clinical preceptors/mentors, and patients.
INTEGRITY
11. Display, through appropriate professional/workplace behavior and performance, recognition and
respect for honest laboratory testing, patient confidentiality, and high quality patient outcomes.
12. Comply with the Old Dominion University Honor Code by submitting only work which is the
product of one’s own effort (I pledge... to be noted on submitted work).
An Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Evaluation Form will be used to evaluate each student
at the end of the full rotation with the assignment of a grade of Pass or Fail (P/F).
A grade of "P" must be obtained on the Professional Evaluation with all behavioral criteria met or exceeded. A
grade of "F" will be assigned if all behavioral criteria are not met.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 77
WRITTEN/ORAL ASSIGNMENT
The student will be able to:
1. Prepare an organized paper and presentation on an appropriate topic (assigned or selected) that
represents the outcome of scholarly efforts such as literature research, special projects or case
history/study analysis.
2. Deliver an in-service to staff on an assigned or selected topic utilizing guidelines and principles of
professional presentations presented in pre-clinical courses.
EVALUATION
Grade percentages:
50% Written (Online)/Oral
50% Technical/Practical
A minimum grade of "C" must be attained in each of the above areas.
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Reasonable accommodations are provided for student with disabilities. Students should self-identify to the
instructor as early in the semester as possible in order to establish an accommodation process:
Office of
Educational Accessibility.
Competencies:
Students must meet or exceed all competencies. (See Competency Task List on the following pages).
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 78
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science
MLS 406 Clinical Microbiology Practicum Competency Task List
Student Name:
Clinical Site:
Evaluator(s): _
Clinical instructors please complete: THIS MLS 406 Clinical Microbiology Task List, Grade Form,
Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Form and Oral Presentation Form.
Complete all forms in Trajecsys or (if technical issues arise) return via email to Angela Wilson at
For each of the required tasks/competencies listed below, please indicate in the appropriate column the student’s degree
of performance and level (C or CE) for each task. Refer to the performance requirements under “Required Tests”
Practicum Syllabus. Also, for each optional task performed (see “Optional Tests” in the Practicum Syllabus), complete the
form in the spaces provided.
C = Competent (entry-level) = successfully completes the assigned task to the degree indicated
CE = entry-level competence exceeded
The student must be competent (performance “Met” or “Exceeded”) in all required tasks.
The highlighted tasks are expected to be completed at the hospital clinical site, while the non-highlighted tasks are
completed during the on-campus phase simulation program.
Task
Minimum
Number
Required
Performance degree
Evaluation
C or CE
Comments:
Please comment
on all tasks
evaluated as CE
Not
Met
Met
Exceeded
Assist and advise in proper specimen collection
and handling
All
Demonstrates knowledge of procedures for
handling improper/inappropriate specimens
All
Demonstrates knowledge of atmospheres (define
ambient, anaerobic, increased CO
2
, and
microaerophilic)
All
Determine appropriate media for initial isolation
for each specimen/source
All
Demonstrate proper inoculation, isolation,
incubation, and quantitation techniques for the
following:
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 79
Clean catch urine
10
Catheterized urine
10
Swabs
10
Sputum
10
Stool
10
Tissue
1
CSF/Other sterile body fluids
5
Miscellaneous
Var
Perform and interpret gram stain from a given
source including:
10
Sputum gram stain:
Suitability for culture
Wounds
Sterile Body Fluids
Identify colonial characteristics of normal flora
and pathogens from a given source:
Urine
20
Stool
10
Respiratory
10
Genital
10
Wound
10
Sterile body site
5
Other
Var
Identify specific isolates based on gram stain
reaction, microscopic morphology, colonial
morphology, & biochemical reactions to include:
50
Staphylococcus aureus
Coagulase-negative Staphylococci
Beta-hemolytic Streptococci
Enterococcus
Alpha-hemolytic Streptococci
Enterobacteriaceae
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 80
Non-fermentative GNB
Neisseria
Haemophilus
Primary intestinal pathogens
including Salmonella, Shigella,
Campylobacter, Vibrio
Other: ________________
Other: ________________
State principles of biochemical tests used in
identification of bacterial isolates
All
Serotype bacteria based on serological
procedures to include:
E.coli
1
Beta Streptococci
5
Process routine blood cultures according to the
procedure in the specific lab
25
Perform work-up procedure for positive blood
cultures & other sterile body fluids
10
Test a body fluid for bacterial antigens
1
State principle, perform, and interpret
antimicrobial susceptibility tests:
Kirby Bauer
5
Beta lactamase test/screen
3
Other methodologies: Microscan, Vitek,
Pheonix
Var
Discuss the principle of bacterial drug resistance
such as MRSA, ESBL, CRE, MDRO and how it
relates to antibiotic stewardship and reporting
Draw correlations between the more commonly
isolated organisms and their susceptibility
patterns, including the usual antibiotic of choice
Var
State principle, perform, & interpret any
commercial identification kits used in the specific
laboratory (Example API 20E)
Var
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 81
Discuss current and emerging molecular
techniques and their use (see additional tasks
listed under “other” below.
State the principle, perform & interpret operation
of any automated equipment used in the specific
laboratory (Example: Vitek®, various serological,
MALDI-TOF, and molecular platforms)
Var
Demonstrate safe work practices such as
autoclave, disposal of biohazards, universal
precautions, etc.
Var
Perform quality assurance (QA) procedures on
equipment, media, & tests
Var
Demonstrate knowledge of how to address QA
failure
Var
Unknown Specimens
Demonstrate proper media selection, inoculation,
incubation and quantitation techniques
Var
Perform and accurately interpret Gram stain
`
Differentiate between normal flora and
pathogens present in sample
Var
Identify isolates based on gram stain reaction,
microscopic and colonial morphology, and
biochemical reactions
Var
Correctly report and discuss appropriate
antibiotics for pathogens identified
Var
If the facility offers any of the procedures listed on the following pages, the student may be required to
perform each task specified. Check those tasks that apply.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 82
MLS 406 Optional Tasks
Minimum
Number*
Performance Degree
Evaluation
C or CE
Comments:
Please comment on all
tasks evaluated as CE
Not Met
Met
Exceeded
Anaerobes
Discuss proper specimen, collection,
and transport of anaerobic cultures
Select proper media selection for
anaerobic cultures
Establish anaerobic environment for
culture (GasPak, Bio-Bags, etc.)
Recognize microscopic and colonial
morphology of normal flora and
potential pathogens
Mycobacteriology
Discuss safety precautions for both
patients and specimens
Process specimens including
digestion and decontamination
procedures
Perform and read acid fast stains,
modified acid-fast stains and
fluorescent stains
Identify isolates based on colonial
and biochemical characteristics
Perform and/or discuss anti-
mycobacterial susceptibility testing
and therapy
Identify mycobacterial culture media
Classify the Mycobacteria species
according to Runyoun groups
Examine department study slides
Mycology
Discuss proper specimen, collection,
transport & processing
Perform wet mounts (KOH, India Ink,
or LPCB)
Perform and read slide culture
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 83
Identify morphological features of
clinically significant fungi
Identify and select proper fungal
media for a given source
Discuss clinical significance of fungal
isolates from a given source and
patient
Identify molds and yeast following
the procedures used in the lab
Examine department study slides
Parasitology
Discuss proper specimen, collection,
and processing
Perform a concentration procedure
Prepare fecal smears (direct smear,
iodine prep, concentrated smears, &
permanent smears)
Prepare thick and thin blood smears
for hemoflagellates
Examine departmental study slides
Recognize diagnostic stages of the
following:
intestinal protozoa
Hemoflagellates
Malaria
Helminths
Coccidian
Virology
Discuss proper specimen, collection,
transport & processing
Describe clinically significant viruses
Perform and/or discuss identification
methods (serology, molecular
methods)
Other
Perform manual D-test, ESBL
confirmation, E-test
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 84
Discuss role of Sentinel Laboratory
in the Laboratory Response Network
Discuss proper specimen collection,
transport & processing of suspected
agents of bioterrorism
Discuss proper collection, transport
& processing of specimens
dedicated for diagnostic testing using
molecular based assays
Identify instruments used in the
performance of molecular diagnostic
methods
Describe the principle of operation
quality control/assurance issues
related to the instruments
* The minimum number is one for each optional task performed at a specific laboratory.
Clinical instructors please complete:
• THIS MLS 406 Clinical Microbiology Task List
• Grade Form
• Oral Presentation Form and Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Form (be sure to
review with student(s) and have student(s) sign).
Complete all forms in Trajecsys or (if technical issues arise) return via email to Angela Wilson at
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 85
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
MLS 452
CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY PRACTICUM
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Direct clinical experience offered in automated and manual clinical chemistry determinations with emphasis on
the principles, instrumentation, interpretation, and diagnostic significance.
CREDIT HOURS – 5
COURSE DIRECTOR: Peter Mollica, PhD
EMAIL: [email protected]
Phone: (757) 683-3459
I. INTRODUCTION
Clinical Biochemistry Practicum is a five-week, hospital-based course designed to follow MLS 324/325
(Instrumentation lecture and lab) & MLS 351 (Biochemistry lecture) which are based at the University. The
course is designed to give the student practical experience in a generalized chemistry laboratory. During the
practicum, the student will develop new practice-oriented skills as well as build on the skills introduced during
the didactic portion of the curriculum. The student is expected to come into the practicum with a solid
foundation of the theoretical and technical aspects of a chemistry laboratory and will be expected to apply this
knowledge during the practicum. The student may also be given additional information, assigned readings and
projects during the rotation. Upon completion of the practicum, the student will have acquired the skills and
competencies required of an entry-level Medical Technologist in a typical Clinical Chemistry laboratory.
GOAL
Students will perform both automated and manual procedures in a clinical laboratory setting, correlate
laboratory results with specific disease and non-disease states. An emphasis is placed on instrumentation
principles used in chemical analysis. The student will gain understanding of the full scope of services provided
in a clinical chemistry laboratory.
Expectations of the following behaviors are the same as outlined for preclinical
courses unless superseded by Clinical Course Policies:
Attendance
Communication Skills
Preparation
Conduct
Honor Code
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Reasonable accommodations are provided for students with disabilities. Students should self -identify to the
instructor as early in the semester as possible in order to establish an accommodation process. See
accessibility site: http://www.odu.edu/educationalaccessibility
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 86
II. REFERENCES
Bishop, Fody, and Schoeff, “Clinical Chemistry. Principles, Techniques, and Correlations” Jones and Bartlett,
Eighth Edition, 2018
Doucette, “Mathematics for the Clinical laboratory”, Elsevier, Third Edition, 2016 (Recommended, not required)
III. COMPETENCIES
1. Operationalize mechanisms for the procurement, processing, and analysis of chemistry specimens.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of procedures for handling improperly collected/handled specimens.
3. Perform standard analytical testing on serum, plasma, urine and other body fluids.
4. Properly analyze quality control and patient samples and demonstrate the knowledge of procedures
for evaluating generated data.
5. Demonstrate ability to institute corrective actions for problems related to verification of discrepant
patient results, quality control data, and quality assurance issues.
6. Demonstrate appropriate skills in the daily assessment, operation and routine maintenance of
automated instrumentation.
7. Appropriately identify instrument problems, initiate and perform preventative maintenance and
institute corrective action.
8. Utilize computer-based technology for input, verification and retrieval of data and instrument
operation.
9. Demonstrate ability to correlate patient data with clinical diagnosis.
10. Demonstrate professional characteristics and conduct with laboratory personnel, other health care
professionals, and patients.
IV. BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES
Cognitive/Psychomotor
After completing this clinical practicum course, studying assigned materials, procedures and
methodologies, and performing assigned tasks, the student will be able to demonstrate an overall
achievement of ≥ 76% on written and practical evaluations.
A. General
The student will be able to:
1. Properly process specimens to include distribution to appropriate work areas. List criteria for evaluating
specimen quality and, according to protocol, identify and evaluate patient specimens in regard to their
acceptability for analysis.
2. Identify precautions and/or special handling techniques for particular procedure requests.
3. Assist in bookkeeping, recording, verification of results, and computer operation according to
established clinical chemistry protocol.
4. Select appropriate reagents and/or kits as needed for analytical procedures and determine appropriate
substitutes for unavailable supplies.
5. Assist in the daily operation of the chemistry analyzers to include performing routine maintenance,
analyzing, evaluating and reporting quality control and patient data and troubleshooting.
6. Perform appropriate computer related functions where applicable.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 87
7. Identify the areas in the laboratory where safety equipment is located and demonstrate basic
knowledge of operation for each piece of equipment.
8. Identify sources of potential biohazard in the lab and recognize unsafe laboratory practices. Employ
appropriate safeguards as outlined in the departmental procedure manual.
9. Demonstrate knowledge of PPE and the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard.
10. State appropriate safety procedures for various laboratory accidents and demonstrate knowledge of
proper protocol for reporting and handling exposure incidents.
11. According to laboratory protocol, demonstrate safety techniques in the handling and disposal of
infectious materials.
B. Instrumentation
For each analyzer employed by the clinical site, the student will be able to:
1. State the principle of operation of each analyzer.
2. Identify the essential components of each analyzer and explain the function of each component.
3. Demonstrate working knowledge of the reagents used on each analyzer and appropriately prepare
and replace reagents as needed.
4. Demonstrate ability to properly operate each analyzer according to laboratory protocol to include
calibration and specimen analysis.
5. Perform routine maintenance on each analyzer according to laboratory protocol.
6. Correctly recognize equipment malfunctions and identify appropriate steps to successfully
troubleshoot the analyzer.
7. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the statistics involved in the analysis of quality control data.
8. Correctly perform and report quality control data on each analyzer according to laboratory protocol.
9. Appropriately analyze quality control data according to site-specific protocol. Demonstrate ability to
recognize and handle data that falls outside of established limits.
10. Validate the accuracy of test results based on assessment of obtained quality control data.
11. Demonstrate proper knowledge of the storage and stability requirements for quality control and
calibrator materials.
12. Recognize and identify the basic criteria of a good quality assurance program.
C. Testing Methodologies
The student will be able to:
1. Describe the principle of each of the following methodologies and identify which analyzers at the
clinical site employ each methodology.
2. Identify which analytes are being tested at the clinical site using each methodology.
a. Spectrophotometry
b. Potentiometry/ISE
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 88
c. Fluorimetry
d. Osmometry
e. Enzyme Kinetics
f. Immunoassays (i.e. EIA, ELISA)
g. Nephelometry
h. Chemiluminescence
i. Electrophoresis
j. Chromatography
k. Atomic Absorption
*The student should be able to discuss the above methodologies even if the tests are not performed on site.
D. Testing Procedures
The student will be able to:
1. Perform each test procedures listed below according to site-specific protocol.
2. For each test procedure, explain the chemical principle used to measure the analyte.
3. Demonstrate a basic working knowledge of the analytes included in each of the following chemistry
panels and in any additional panels used at the clinical site.
a. BMP
b. CMP
c. Electrolyte Panel
d. Liver Panel
e. Thyroid Panel
f. Cardiac Panel
g. Lipid Panel
4. Become familiar with the reference range for each analyte. State specific reference ranges as
determined by the clinical instructor.
5. Evaluate and report patient results according to site-specific protocol.
6. Demonstrate ability to identify erroneous patient results and institute the appropriate corrective action.
7. Demonstrate ability to evaluate abnormal patient results and correlate the results to a possible clinical
diagnosis.
8. Correlate results from various tests on the same patient to aid in determining a possible clinical
diagnosis.
9. Identify and perform any back-up methods for the analytes being measured.
10. As determined by the clinical instructor, perform the following calculations using patient data
a. creatinine clearance
b. osmolality
c. anion gap
11. Perform testing on unknown samples as determined by the clinical instructor.
12. Demonstrate proper knowledge of the storage and stability requirements for each specimen.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 89
13. The student must demonstrate proficiency in each of the following test procedures:
Required
a. Glucose/HgbA1C
b. Electrolytes
c. Total Protein
d. Albumin
e. AG Ratio
f. Urine Protein
g. Microalbumin
h. Uric Acid
i. BUN
j. Creatinine
k. Ammonia
l. Total Bilirubin
m. Direct Bilirubin
n. Iron
o. TIBC
p. Ferritin
q. HDL
r. LDL
s. Triglycerides
t. Cholesterol
u. Liver enzymes
v. Amylase
w. Lipase
x. Cardiac Markers**
y. Therapeutic Drug Monitoring**
z. Drugs of Abuse**
aa. Endocrinology**
**perform testing as appropriate to each clinical site
14. The student will demonstrate competency in the following optional test procedures as applicable to each
clinical site (“optional” at the assigned site -may need to perform at another site as part of “special
chemistry” days):
1. POCT
2. Serum Proteins
a. Transferrin
b. Haptoglobin
c. Ceruloplasmin
d. Immunoglobulins
e. α-1 Antitrypsin
f. Prealbumin
g. CRP
3. Fetal Lung Maturity
4. Serum & CSF Electrophoresis
5. Immunofixation
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 90
6. Toxicology
7. Blood Gases
8. Acid Phosphatase
9. Tumor Markers
10. Esoteric Endocrinology Tests
E. Molecular Diagnostics
The student will be able to:
1. Discuss specimen collection/integrity/processing employed in molecular diagnostic methodologies if
encountered during clinical chemistry rotation.
2. Identify extra/special specimen precautions and considerations employed in a molecular diagnostic
laboratory compared to the general clinical laboratory.
3. Identify instruments used in the performance of molecular diagnostic methods.
4. Describe the principle of operation quality control/assurance issues related to the instruments in #3.
Affective:
1-12 must be “MET” or exceeded according to established evaluation guidelines.
POLICY COMPLIANCE
1. Demonstrate an appreciation for the value and necessity of maintaining an orderly and safe laboratory
environment by adhering to OSHA safety regulations, program and facility safety policies, and to
practices outlined by the instructor.
2. Display professional/workplace responsibility by adhering to guidelines and policies outlined by the
program, individual courses, and affiliated clinical facilities.
PROMPTNESS/ATTENDANCE
3. Develop the highly valued professional characteristic of maintaining a blemish free attendance and
punctuality record by reporting to classes, laboratories, and assigned clinical sites on time, notifying
instructors/supervisors promptly when absence is anticipated and meeting all established deadlines.
INITIATIVE
4. Display appropriate initiative and motivation in all academic and practical performances by completing
both assigned and unsolicited tasks satisfactorily, addressing problems or interferences appropriately.
RESPONSIBILITY
5. Demonstrate an appreciation of the role of active participation in the education process by displaying
preparedness and engagement in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical learning environments.
6. Display professional responsibility by accepting direction, adapting to the learning environment, and
completing required assignments as outlined.
RELIABILITY
7. Demonstrate the ability to maintain intellectual and emotional stability and maturity under stress, by
producing results that meet appropriate performance standards.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 91
8. Demonstrate, by attitude and performance, an appreciation of the value and importance of procedural
consistency and technical accuracy and precision.
PROFESSIONAL /WORKPLACE DEMEANOR
9. Display appropriate professional/workplace decorum during both the preclinical and
clinical phases of the program by complying with the guidance, instructions, and
direction outlined by faculty and clinical preceptors/mentors.
10. Comply with accepted rules of conventional professional/workplace behavior during both
the preclinical and clinical phases of the program by exhibiting a cooperative, respectful,
and collegial demeanor in interactions with faculty, classmates, clinical
preceptors/mentors, and patients.
INTEGRITY
11. Display, through appropriate professional/workplace behavior and performance, recognition and
respect for honest laboratory testing, patient confidentiality, and high quality patient outcomes.
12. Comply with the Old Dominion University Honor Code by submitting only work which is the product of
one’s own effort (I pledge... to be noted on submitted work).
An Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Evaluation Form will be used to evaluate each student at
the end of the full rotation with the assignment of a grade of Pass or Fail (P/F).
A grade of "P" must be obtained on the Professional Evaluation with all behavioral criteria met or exceeded.
A grade of "F" will be assigned if all behavioral criteria are not met.
V WRITTEN/ORAL ASSIGNMENT
The student will be able to:
1. Prepare an organized paper and presentation on an appropriate topic (assigned or selected) that
represents the outcome of scholarly efforts such as literature research, special projects or case
history/study analysis.
2. Deliver an in-service to staff on an assigned or selected topic utilizing guidelines and principles of
professional presentations presented in pre-clinical courses.
VI EVALUATION:
Grade percentages:
50% - Written(Online)/Oral (Tests, Projects, Paper) and 50% - Technical/Practical
A minimum grade of "C" based on the following scale must be attained in each of the above areas.
A - 90-100%
B - 83-89%
C - 76-82%
D - 65-75%
F - Below 65%
Competencies: Students must meet or exceed all competencies. (See Competency Task List on the following
pages).
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 92
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
MLS 452 Clinical Biochemistry Practicum Competency Task List
Student Name: _____________________________________________________
Date: _____________________________________________________
Clinical Site: _____________________________________________________
Clinical instructors please complete: THESE Task List Forms (multiple), Grade Form, Affective
Behavior/Professional Characteristics Form and Oral Presentation Form
Complete all forms in Trajecsys or (if technical issues arise) return via email to Dr. Peter Mollica at
Instructions:
1) A separate checklist must be completed for each major instrument utilized in clinical chemistry at the
clinical site.
2) For each of the tasks/procedures listed, indicate the method of evaluation and the level of competence by
completing the form in the spaces provided. Attach additional documentation where appropriate.
3) The student must be competent in all assigned tasks to pass the competency evaluation.
4) Student may demonstrate ability in one manual back-up procedure for the automated chemistry analyzer(s).
Example:
Instrument: Name of instrument
Analytes: BMP
Task Method of Evaluation Evaluation:
Comments:
(Required for all tasks evaluated as
CE or not met)
Operation/
Performance
Comparison
of Results
Observation/
Review
C CE
Not
Met
Instrument Theory of
Operation
X X
Key:
C = Competent (entry-level) = successfully completes the assigned task within the degree indicated
CE = entry-level competence exceeded
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 93
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
MLS 452 Competency Task List
Instrument: _______________________________________________________
Analyte(s): ____________________________________________________________
Evaluator/s: ______________________________________________________________
Task Method of Evaluation Evaluation: Comments:
(Required for all tasks evaluated as CE or
not met)
Operation/
Performance
Comparison
of Results
Observation/
Review
C CE Not
Met
Instrument Theory of Operation
Physiological Significance of Tests
Instrument Methodologies
Instrument Calibration
Preventative Maintenance
Reagent Preparation
Reagent Storage, and Stability
Sample Preparation and Handling
Accurate Verification of patient
results
Identify discrepant patient results
& variables affecting results
Identify Reference Ranges for
each major analyte
Knowledge of appropriate
calculations
Knowledge of Back-up
Methodologies for each primary
analyzer
Analysis of Quality Control Data
Identify and take appropriate
action for QC data that is not
within established limits
Correlation with other clinical lab
results
Correlation with pathological
conditions
Trouble-shooting Techniques
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 94
Knowledge of Biohazards and
Safety
Statistical Knowledge of Method
Comparison
Clinical instructors please complete:
• THESE (plural) MLS 452 Clinical Microbiology Task Lists
• Grade Form
• Oral Presentation Form and Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Form (be sure to
review with student(s) and have student(s) sign).
Complete all forms in Trajecsys or (if technical issues arise) return via email to Dr. Peter Mollica at
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 95
Old Dominion University
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE PROGRAM
MLS 454
CLINICAL IMMUNOHEMATOLOGY PRACTICUM
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Direct clinical experience offered in the theories and principles of blood banking with emphasis on the
instruction of technical procedures used in an AABB approved blood bank. (This course is offered on campus
in an accelerated format followed by a 2-week rotation at an assigned clinical site.)
GOAL
Students will apply knowledge obtained of in vivo and in vitro blood cell antigen/antibody interactions, and
accurately interpret serologic and clinical data in the procurement, selection, and preparation of safe
transfusion products.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Cristina S. Ruffy, MT(AMT), BB(ASCP)
CM
, direct practicum oversight: cristina.f.ruffy.civ@health.mil (preferred),
Barbara Kraj, PhD, MLS(ASCP)
CM
, MB
CM
, ODU MLS Program director: [email protected] ; phone: 757-683-6039
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Reasonable accommodations are provided for student with disabilities. Students should self-identify to the
instructor as early in the semester as possible in order to establish an accommodation process through the
Office of Educational Accessibility
.
TEXTBOOK
Harmening, D.M. (2019). Modern blood banking and transfusion practices (7th ed). Philadelphia: F.A. Davis.
Note: Additional references are available at the clinical site.
Expectations of the following behaviors are the same as outlined for preclinical courses unless superseded by
Clinical Course policies.
Attendance
Communication
Preparation
Conduct
Honor Code
I. INTRODUCTION
This course is designed to follow the prerequisite University- based course, MLS 326/336 (Immunohematology
lecture and laboratory). This course emphasizes the refinement of basic technical skills, the development of
new practice-oriented skills and the enhancement of the theoretical foundation that the student possesses. At
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 96
the completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate the competencies that should be possessed
by an entry-level laboratory scientist in a typical Blood Bank. A pre-test will be administered at the
beginning of this practicum.
II Competencies
A. Operatonalize mechanisms for the procurement, identification, processing, and analysis of blood bank
specimens.
B. Perform, according to standards, serological testing of donor and recipient samples providing safe
transfusion events.
C. Recognize testing and clerical discrepancies and irregularities when processing donor and recipient
samples.
D. Employ approved standards and procedures when evaluating donor and recipient status.
E. Employ proper quality control procedures in the identification, testing, and labeling of donor/component
units and recipient samples.
F. Institute preventive and corrective action, according to standards, designed to ensure accurate sample
processing, component selection and processing, and transfusion.
G. Employ approved record keeping procedures to ensure the provision of safe therapeutic blood
products.
H. Research and develop a relevant blood banking topic and deliver a presentation to department
colleagues.
I. Demonstrate professional characteristics and conduct with laboratory personnel, other health care
professionals, and patients.
III. BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES
Cognitive/Psychomotor
After completing this clinical practicum course, studying assigned materials, mastering procedures
and methodologies, and performing assigned tasks, the student will be able to demonstrate an overall
achievement of ≥76% on written and practical evaluations with stated accuracy on practical
evaluations.
A. General - The student will be able to:
1. Identify critical measures that ensure accurate and reliable pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical
processing of patient and donor samples
2. Identify/employ established procedures in the identification and processing of patient samples, donor units,
and components. Distinguish acceptable from non-acceptable specimens.
3. Identify precautions and/or special handling techniques for routine and special requests.
4. Select the appropriate reagents as needed for specific and routine tests.
5. Identify sources of biohazard and employ safeguards as outlined by OSHA regulations.
6. Identify/employ criteria established for adequate and correct record keeping.
7. Outline basic quality control procedures.
8. Identify medico-legal issues in Blood Bank.
9. Employ safeguards related to medico-legal issues as outlined by laboratory procedures and policies.
10. Demonstrate compliance with all laboratory and hospital policies.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 97
11. Perform computer related functions where applicable, including data input, retrieval and storage.
12. Demonstrate affective behavior/professional characteristics and conduct by achieving a “met” or
“exceeded” for each at terminal evaluation.
B. Blood Group Serology - The student will be able to:
1. Explain or define basic immunologic terms and principles.
2. Distinguish the structural, serological and physical properties of IgG and IgM immunoglobulins.
3. Identify conditions and techniques that influence antigen-antibody reactions for the purpose of detection
and/or elimination of clinically significant antibodies.
4. Identify conditions that interfere with the interpretation of antigen antibody reactions.
5. Identify the pertinent serological and physical characteristics of antibodies in the ABO, Rh and significant
"other" blood group systems.
6. Identify the frequency of the major antigens in the ABO, Rh and significant "other" blood group systems.
7. Explain the clinical significance of ABO, Rh and "other" blood group systems.
8. Employ knowledge of basic genetic principles in the interpretation of inheritance patterns and blood types.
9. Given problems, inconclusive or discrepant results, identify cause, suggest/employ steps and methods to
achieve a resolution based on knowledge of the principles of blood group serology and characteristics of
blood group antigens and antibodies.
C. ABH System - The student will be able to:
1. Given the appropriate test results on patient or donor samples, correctly interpret the ABO group.
a. Recognize normal, discrepant, and anomalous results.
b. Identify causes of discrepant and inconclusive results including:
1) serum antibody problems
2) red cell/antigen problems
3) subgroups, e.g. A
3
, A
x
, A
m
4) anomalous phenotypes
c. distinguish H antigen and its relationship to subgroups and Bombay phenotype.
d. Identify technical sources of error.
2. Suggest/employ methods to resolve testing problems.
a. RBC/ag tests
b. serum/ab tests
D. Rh System - The student will be able to:
1. Given the appropriate test results on patient or donor samples, correctly interpret the Rh phenotype
and/or most probable genotype.
a. Compare the genetic theories of inheritance of Tippet, Fisher-Race, and Wiener.
b. Employ the nomenclature of Fisher-Race and Wiener interchangeably.
c. Identify nomenclatures of Rosenfield and the ISBT.
d. Compare various Rh typing procedures including reagent composition and testing limitations.
e. Identify/resolve sources of error.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 98
2. Identify/explain Rh variants and anomalous phenotypes.
a. Wk D testing requirements
b. RhAG/ Rh null and mod
c. LW
E. ABO. Rh. and Other Blood Group Systems (to include, but not limited to Lewis, I, Kell, P, Duffy,
Kidd, MNS, Lutheran, certain high frequency and low frequency antigens) - The student will be able
to:
1. Analyze each blood group system with emphasis on the immunogenic potential of the antigens and the
potential of antibodies to cause HTR and HDFN.
a. Identify symbols used to designate antigens and phenotypes.
b. Compare and contrast the serological and physical characteristics of antibodies in the
various systems including:
1) immunoglobulin class
2) unique characteristics that aid in antibody identification, including but not limited to
dosage, neutralization, increased serum-cell ratios, and enzymes
3) complement dependency
4) potential for causing HTR or HDFN
2. Evaluate antigen/antibody testing results for presumed genotype/phenotype.
3. Evaluate the clinical significance of the various blood group antibodies when selecting blood for
transfusion.
4. Correlate medical history with serological results
5. Identify frequency of clinically significant antigens.
F. Antiglobulin Test (Direct and Indirect) - The student will be able to:
1. Evaluate the AGT, direct and indirect, identifying the clinical significance of the information obtained.
a. Explain the principle/procedure of the tests (direct and indirect), including enhancement and QC of
negative results.
b. Identify clinical conditions and situations for which the direct and indirect AGT are used.
c. Compare the composition and specificity of the various antiglobulin sera (polyspecific, monospecific,
and anti-complement).
d. List sources of error.
e. Identify factors affecting the sensitivity of the test.
f. Explain the role of complement in antiglobulin reactions.
2. Evaluate the role of IgG coated cells.
G. Antibody Detection and Identification - The student will be able to:
1. Given appropriate antibody detection and identification results, correctly identify auto- and/or
alloantibody(ies).
a. Explain the rationale of procedural steps including testing, phase requirements, methods to rule out
the presence of additional antibodies, and phenotyping to confirm antibody identity.
b. Record results as read according to established criteria and policy.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 99
c. Explain the role of the autocontrol.
2. Given inconclusive identification (panel) results, suggest/employ techniques that will allow correct
identification.
3. Employ/suggest enhancement techniques and techniques that will aid in identification including but not
limited to:
absorption
elution
inhibition/neutralization
enzymes
selected cell panel
antigen typing
temperature reduction
increased serum-to-cell ratio
increased incubation time
polyethylene glycol (PEG)
alteration of pH
titration
prewarmed technique
4. Explain the importance of medical history in identification of antibodies
5. Employ/select techniques to identify and differentiate warm and cold autoantibodies.
a. without underlying alloantibodies
b. with underlying alloantibodies.
6. Employ select techniques to identify and differentiate the various causes of drug-induced warm
autoantibodies.
H. Pretransfusion Testing - The student will be able to:
1. Explain the purpose of pretransfusion testing.
2. Employ proper procedures for pretransfusion testing as outlined by laboratory policy.
3. Evaluate requirements for pretransfusion testing including but not limited to requirements for:
a. requests
b. specimens
i. labels
ii. nature
iii. age
iv. special requirements for neonates
v. confirming identity
vi. retention/storage
4. Explain the value of checking previous records
5. Explain/perform serological testing as outlined by laboratory policy
6. Interpret antibody screening and crossmatch results
7. Explain/employ "Type and Screen" policy
8. Explain/employ for compatibility testing requirements for exchange and non-exchange transfusion.
I. Compatibility Tests - The student will be able to:
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 100
1. Analyze the compatibility test with respect to purpose, required testing procedures on patient and donor
samples, and expected results that are consistent with suitability for transfusion.
a. Discuss acceptable patient and donor samples, including identification, age, source, testing
requirements, storage, etc.
b. Check previous records and requests for special needs including but not limited to sickle negative,
CMV negative, irradiated and leukocyte reduced products.
c. Select the appropriate type of donor blood for testing and transfusion according to procedures as
applicable to the following situations:
i. non-emergent requests
ii. emergency requests
iii. massive transfusion
iv. least incompatible
v. unexpected allo- and/or auto antibody(ies)
2. Employ established guidelines and policies in testing of donor and patient samples, and recording
results and information.
3. Identify causes of problems and/or incompatible tests.
4. Specify/employ procedures used to resolve problems and/or incompatible results.
5. Given compatibility test problems:
a. identify the cause and
b. suggest/employ steps that will lead to a resolution.
6. Predict random number of units to screen given the recipient antibody and (frequency).
7. Identify special criteria for neonatal transfusions.
J. Transfusion Reactions - The student will be able to:
1. Compare the types of transfusion reactions with regard to clinical severity, symptoms and investigation
requirements.
a. Identify testing requirements for transfusion reaction investigations.
b. Identify clerical requirements for transfusion reaction investigations.
2. Explain the rationale that governs the selection of blood for transfusions.
3. Discuss/identify transfusion transmitted viruses and the value of lookback policies.
K. Donor Selection and Processinq - The student will be able to:
1. Identify criteria for selection.
2. Compare requirements for testing by the collecting agency with those of the transfusing institution.
3. Identify various anticoagulants and additives currently in use, indicating advantages, and shelf life.
4. Identify labeling, storage, and shipping requirements.
5. Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of autologous versus homologous donor
requirements.
6. Identify requirements for directed donor units.
L. Component Preparation and Therapy - The student will be able to:
1. Analyze each component with emphasis on the following:
a. Method of preparation
b. Maximum age requirement for preparation.
c. Anticoagulant used.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 101
d. Shelf life.
e. Storage requirement.
f. Indications and use.
g. Quality control requirements
h. Usual dosage.
2. Given a patient's history, select the appropriate component, dosage, and filter.
M. Investigation of HDFN - The student will be able to:
1. Compare the clinical manifestations and serological characteristics of ABO, Rh and "other" HDFN.
2. Identify maternal and infant prenatal and postnatal tests used for the detection and evaluation of HDFN,
including ABO, Rh, ab screen, DAT, elution, and Kleihauer- Betke acid elution.
3. Select appropriate components for transfusion, exchange and non exchange, satisfying requirements
for age, quantity and type, as well as serological test results (sickle, CMV, antibody status of the
mother, etc.).
4. Evaluate criteria which establishes candidacy for prenatal and postnatal RhIG
5. Calculate/select dosage of RhlG.
N. HLA Testing - The student will be able to:
1. Describe the HLA system.
a. explain the present system of nomenclature
b. identify cellular locations of antigens
2. Describe the inheritance of HLA antigens.
3. Identify the principle of the various testing procedures.
4. List the clinical applications of HLA typing.
O. Paternity Testing - The student will be able to:
1. Identify the role of blood group systems in paternity testing.
2. Differentiate criteria for direct and indirect exclusion.
P. Quality Control - The student will be able to:
1. Explain quality management practice in the transfusion laboratory including managerial components,
objectives, cell/serum controls, equipment controls and routine testing intervals and frequencies.
2. Identify quality control violations that may lead to inaccurate testing results.
Specific Performance Objectives
A. General
The student will be able to:
1. Recognize correctly labeled specimens with 100% accuracy.
2. Perform/assist in routine quality assurance procedures, reagent testing, equipment monitoring and
records maintenance.
3. Assist in the processing and release of blood and blood components.
4. Assist in the inventory/ordering of blood and blood components, reagents, and general operating
supplies.
5. Employ measures designed to reduce pre-analytical, analytical & post-analytical variability.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 102
6. Identify errors (preanalytical, analytical, and post analytical) in performed procedures including those
due to technique, reagents, mechanical malfunction, etc.
B. Test Procedures
The student will be able to perform and complete the minimum number of tests with the accuracy
indicated or those established by the instructor.
1. ABO and Rh tube type, including Wk D – test 10 with 100% accuracy.
2. Indirect Coombs- test 3 with 100% accuracy.
3. Direct Coombs –test 6 with 100% accuracy.
4. Crossmatches- test 2 with 100% accuracy.
5. Exchange Transfusion Workup- perform 1 with 100% accuracy.
6. RhIG Workup- test 2 with 100% accuracy.
7. Transfusion Reaction Workup-test 1 with 100% accuracy.
8. Antibody Identification: at least one sample is to contain a minimum of 3 antibodies.
9. Type and Screen- 2 with 100% accuracy
10. Cord Blood Workup- 2 with 100% accuracy
11. Antigen Typing:
a. Direct
b. Indirect
12. Quality Control Reagent Rack- Daily QC with 100% accuracy.
13. Processing Units- 10 in 30 minutes with 100% accuracy.
14. Elutions:
a. Lui Easy Freeze- 1with 100% accuracy
b. Acid Elution- 1 with 100% accuracy.
15. Case histories- as assigned
16. Antibody Titers- 1 with 100% accuracy.
17. Kleihauer- Betke – 1-2 slides with accuracy as assigned
C. Optional:
1. Donor workup and phlebotomy- 1 in 45 minutes
2. Component preparation
3. Viral testing
4. Slide typing
5. Neonatal transfusion workup:
a. exchange
b. non-exchange
i. (PUBS) Peri-umbilical blood sampling (Including ABO, Rh, DAT and other antigen typings as
required to differentiate mother from fetus).
ii. Absorptions
c. warm autoabsorptions
d. cold autoabsorptions
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 103
Affective:
1-12 must be “MET” or exceeded according to established evaluation guidelines.
POLICY COMPLIANCE
1. Demonstrate an appreciation for the value and necessity of maintaining an orderly and safe laboratory
environment by adhering to OSHA safety regulations, program and facility safety policies, and to
practices outlined by the instructor.
2. Display professional/workplace responsibility by adhering to guidelines and policies outlined by the
program, individual courses, and affiliated clinical facilities.
PROMPTNESS/ATTENDANCE
3. Develop the highly valued professional characteristic of maintaining a blemish free attendance and
punctuality record by reporting to classes, laboratories, and assigned clinical sites on time, notifying
instructors/supervisors promptly when absence is anticipated and meeting all established deadlines.
INITIATIVE
4. Display appropriate initiative and motivation in all academic and practical performances by completing
both assigned and unsolicited tasks satisfactorily, addressing problems or interferences appropriately.
RESPONSIBILITY
5. Demonstrate an appreciation of the role of active participation in the education process by displaying
preparedness and engagement in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical learning environments.
6. Display professional responsibility by accepting direction, adapting to the learning environment, and
completing required assignments as outlined.
RELIABILITY
7. Demonstrate the ability to maintain intellectual and emotional stability and maturity under stress, by
producing results that meet appropriate performance standards.
8. Demonstrate, by attitude and performance, an appreciation of the value and importance of procedural
consistency and technical accuracy and precision.
PROFESSIONAL /WORKPLACE DEMEANOR
9. Display appropriate professional/workplace decorum during both the preclinical and clinical phases of
the program by complying with the guidance, instructions, and direction outlined by faculty and clinical
preceptors/mentors.
10. Comply with accepted rules of conventional professional/workplace behavior during both the preclinical
and clinical phases of the program by exhibiting a cooperative, respectful, and collegial demeanor in
interactions with faculty, classmates, clinical preceptors/mentors, and patients.
INTEGRITY
11. Display, through appropriate professional/workplace behavior and performance, recognition and
respect for honest laboratory testing, patient confidentiality, and high-quality patient outcomes.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 104
12. Comply with the Old Dominion University Honor Code by submitting only work which is the
product of one’s own effort (I pledge... to be noted on submitted work).
A grade of "P" must be attained on the Professional Characteristics Evaluation form, with all behavioral criteria
met or exceeded. A grade of "F" will be assigned if all behavioral criteria are not met.
Note: A formative affective/behavioral evaluation is completed at the end of the on-campus phase.
IV. WRITTEN/ORAL ASSIGNMENT
The student will be able to:
1. Prepare an organized paper and presentation on an appropriate topic (assigned or selected) that
represents the outcome of scholarly efforts such as literature research, special projects or case
history/study analysis.
2. Deliver an inservice to staff on an assigned or selected topic utilizing guidelines and principles of
professional presentations presented in pre-clinical courses.
V. EVALUATION
Grade percentages:
50% Written/Oral + 50% Technical
A minimum grade of "C" based on the following scale must be attained in each of the above areas:
A 90-100 D 65-75
B 83-89 F below 65
C 76-82
Competencies: Students must meet or exceed all competencies. (See Competency Task List on the following
pages).
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 105
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
MLS 454 Clinical Blood Bank Practicum Competency Task List
Student Name: _____
Clinical Site:
Evaluator:
Clinical instructors please complete: THIS Task List Form, Professional Characteristics Form and Oral
Presentation Form in Trajecsys or (if technical issues arise) return via email to Barbara Kraj at
For each of the required tasks/competencies listed below, please indicate in the appropriate column the
student’s degree performance and level (C or CE) for each task. Refer to the performance requirements under
“Test Procedures” in the Practicum Syllabus. Also, for each optional task performed (see “Optional List” in the
Practicum Syllabus), complete the form in the spaces provided.
C = Competent (entry-level) = successfully completes the assigned task within the degree indicated
CE = entry-level competence exceeded
The student must be competent in all required tasks. The highlighted tasks are expected to be completed
at the clinical site, while the others are completed during the on-campus phase of this practicum.
Required Tasks
Minimum/
Accuracy
Performance Degree
Evaluation:
C or CE
Comments:
(Required for all tasks
evaluated as CE)
Not Met
Met
Exceeded
Identifies incorrectly
labeled specimens
All
Preparation of 5%
RBC suspension
10/100
ABO & Rh Tube
Typing (including
Weak D testing)
10/100
IAT
3/100
DAT
6/100
Crossmatch
2/100
Exchange Tx
Workup
1/100
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 106
RhIG workup
2/100
Transfusion reaction
workup
1/100
Antibody
Identification
(single ab.)
var/100
Antibody
Identification
(multiple ab.)
var/100
Type & Screen
2/100
Cord blood workup
2/100
Antigen Typing
2/100
Participates in
ordering/inventory
activities
Variable
Quality Control
Reagent rack
daily/100
Processing and
Release of blood
and blood
Components
10/100
Lui Freeze / Thaw
Elution
1/100
Acid Elution
1/100
Antibody Titer
1/100
Kleihauer-Betke
Acid elution stain
Other:
Optional Tasks
Clinical instructors please complete:
• THIS Competency Task Form
• Oral Presentation Form
• Professional Characteristics Form (be sure to review with student(s) and have student(s) sign).
Complete all forms in Trajecsys or (if technical issues arise) return via email to Barbara Kraj at
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 107
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
CLINICAL URINALYSIS OBJECTIVES
I INTRODUCTION
Clinical Urinalysis is designed to give the student practical experience in the urinalysis lab. The student is
expected to come into this course with a sound background in the basic theory and techniques of urinalysis,
basic knowledge of normal and abnormal physiology, clinical correlations, and microscopic technique. The
student is expected to begin to correlate theory and practice and upon completion of the course, the student
should be able to perform at entry level, the physical, chemical and microscopic examination of the urine. The
student may also be given additional information, assigned readings and projects as determined by the clinical
instructor.
II COMPETENCIES
The student will be able to:
1. Process and prepare urine and other body fluid specimens for analysis.
2. Distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable specimens received in the lab.
3. Perform routine quality control procedures per laboratory protocol.
4. Verify and report patient results to include recognizing discrepant results. Utilize computer-based
technology for input and retrieval of data.
5. Institute solutions or corrective actions for problems related to specimen integrity, verification of abnormal
results, quality control data, and quality assurance issues.
6. Perform any necessary calculations as determined by clinical site.
7. Assist in the maintenance of urinalysis equipment and demonstrate an ability to calibrate, operate, maintain
and perform routine troubleshooting on any equipment (if available) used to include:
a. Automated Analyzer(s)
b. Osmometer
c. Bright field microscope
d. Phase contract microscope
e. Polarizing microscope
f. Centrifuge
8. Perform physical, chemical and microscopic testing on urine specimens.
9. Demonstrate professional characteristics and conduct with laboratory personnel, other health care
professionals, and patients.
III Routine Urinalysis
A. Physical Examination of the Urine
The student will be able to:
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 108
1. Perform and interpret tests for specific gravity.
2. Describe the effects of interfering substances, such as glucose and protein, on the specific gravity.
3. List the normal ranges of specific gravity for urine.
4. Recognize normal and abnormal odors, color and appearance of urine. Discuss the significance of any
abnormal findings and identify probable causes for these abnormalities.
5. Perform color and clarity on at least 50 urine specimens.
B. Chemical Examination of the Urine
The student will be able to:
1. Perform chemical analysis using reagent strip testing on at least 50 urine specimens, both normal and
abnormal, with 100% accuracy utilizing either visual readings or automated readers.
2. State the principle, normal ranges and interfering substances of all reactions on the reagent strips utilized.
3. Perform microalbumin testing using the reagent strip method if applicable.
C. Microscopic Examination of the Urine
The student will be able to:
1. Perform at least 25 microscopic examinations on urinary sediment, both normal and abnormal, utilizing the
brightfield microscope with 100% accuracy.
2. Correctly identify, count and report all of the following with 100% accuracy:
a. Red blood cells
b. White blood cells
c. Epithelial cells
d. Yeast, Bacteria, and Parasites
e. Casts
f. Crystals, both normal & abnormal
g. Oval fat bodies.
3. Discuss the effects of pH, temperature, bacteria and time on formed elements in the urine.
4. Identify and correlate normal and abnormal crystals based on the pH of the urine.
5. Distinguish artifacts from urinary constituents.
D. Evaluation
The student will be able to:
1. Perform 50 complete routine urinalysis examinations, automated or manual, with 100% accuracy.
2. Correlate microscopic findings with physical and chemical results.
3. Interpret results, both normal and abnormal, and discuss their clinical significance.
4. Correlate abnormal results with other clinical tests performed on the patient, if applicable.
5. Analyze results and determine their validity on the basis of appropriate quality control mechanisms.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 109
IV Osmolarity Testing (as available at the rotation site)
The student will be able to:
1. Describe the theory and essential components of the osmometer utilized in the clinical laboratory. Assist in
performing routine maintenance on the analyzer as indicated by laboratory protocol.
2. Perform routine quality control procedures per laboratory protocol.
3. Perform at least 4 osmolalities on serum and urine as indicated by laboratory protocol if applicable.
4. Verify and report patient results. Identify reference ranges of both serum and urine osmolalities and explain
the clinical significance of abnormal test results.
V Biohazard and Safety Procedures
The student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate all laboratory safety techniques when dealing with biohazards in a urinalysis laboratory.
2. Demonstrate appropriate safety procedures when dealing with fires, chemical burns, eye accidents, and
explosions.
3. Identify the areas in the laboratory where safety equipment is located.
VI Quality Control
The student will be able to:
1. Identify factors that contribute to pre-analytical, analytical & post-analytical variability.
2. Employ measures designed to reduce pre-analytical, analytical & post-analytical variability.
Suggested References:
Brunzel, N. A. (2013). Fundamental of urine & body fluid analysis. (3
rd
ed.). Elsevier, Inc.
Strasinger, S. K., Di Lorenzo, M. S. (2014). Urinalysis and body fluids. (6
th
ed.). Philadelphia, PA: F.A. Davis.
The cognitive objectives will be evaluated using study questions and case studies which will be graded as “P” if
completed within the stated guidelines. The psychomotor objectives as outlined in the competency checklist
must be “met”. Failure to meet either requirement will require resubmission and/or repeat, respectively.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 110
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Urinalysis Checklist
Student Name: _________________________________________________
Note: Procedures may be performed at multiple clinical sites.
Procedure
Clinical Site
Objectives &
Competencies
Instructor
Comments*
Met | Not Met
Routine Chemical & Physical
Analysis (50)
Microscopic Examination
(25)
Complete Urinalysis (50)
Complete Urinalysis cont.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 111
Tests as available:
Osmolality
Others; please list
Student should return the form (along with study questions and case studies) via email to: Rachel
Childs at [email protected]
The form is also available in Trajecsys.
Program requirements are not complete unless Urinalysis and Immunology Checklists, as well as the
study questions and case studies are submitted.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 112
Urinalysis Rotation Study Questions and Case Studies
These study questions and case studies are to be completed during your rotations. They must be all
submitted by the date required by the faculty reviewing Urinalysis checklist included in this handbook.
Program requirements are not complete unless Urinalysis and Immunology Checklists, as well as the
study questions and case studies are submitted.
The document is posted on the Clinical Hematology Practicum (MLS 404) CANVAS site for download.
Responses to study questions and case studies are to be submitted as a word document. It is
expected that your answers will be thorough, accurate and well researched. Unacceptable responses
will be returned for resubmission.
Evaluation:
Responses will be evaluated according to the attached grading scheme.
The assigned grade will be U or P. The scale is as follows:
P = Pass
U = Resubmit
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 113
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY/SEROLOGY OBJECTIVES
INTRODUCTION
Clinical Serology Practicum is designed to follow the preclinical courses, MLS 330/ 331 (Immunology/Serology
Lecture and Laboratory) taken during students’ junior year. This clinical experience builds on a previously
acquired theoretical and technical foundation and emphasizes the enhancement of acquired knowledge and
skills. The menu for immunology/serologic procedures varies at each site. Therefore, these objectives
should be satisfied during the entire length of your rotation period.
COMPETENCIES
1. Operationalize mechanisms for the procurement, processing, and analysis of specimens.
2. Perform standard immunologic analyses, automated and manual, on blood, plasma, and other
appropriate fluids.
3. Recognize discrepant results, using relevant clinical and interlaboratory data.
4. Institute solutions or corrective actions for problems related to verification of abnormal results, quality
control data, and quality assurance issues.
5. Initiate and perform preventative maintenance, identify equipment and instrument problems, and
institute corrective action.
6. Utilize computer-based technology for input and retrieval of data and instrument operation.
7. Demonstrate professional characteristics and conduct with laboratory personnel, other health care
professionals, and patients.
BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVES
A. Basic Immunologic Principles
The student will be able to:
1. Identify each of the types of immunity involved in the body’s response to microbial disease.
2. Identify the factors that contribute to the development of immunologic disease.
3. Discuss the chemical and physical properties of antigens.
4. Differentiate the structure, function and physiological characteristics of each class of immunoglobulin.
5. Describe the sequence of antibody synthesis.
6. Describe the function of granulocytes and monocytes-macrophages in host defense.
7. Identify the specific function of each type of lymphocyte.
8. Identify major membrane markers use to classify T & B lymphocytes.
9. Describe the interrelated activities of the components of the immune system when mounting a response to
antigenic challenge.
10. Describe the principle of each in vitro antigen – antibody reaction, to include agglutination, precipitation,
and labeled assays.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 114
B. General Laboratory Practice
The student will be able to:
1. Process specimens, including distribution to proper work areas, accessioning, and verification and
reporting of results.
2. Identify precautions and/or special handling techniques for particular procedure requests.
3. Inspect and evaluate suitability of specimens for the requested analyses.
4. Select the appropriate kit and and/or reagents a needed for particular assay and determine appropriate
substitutes for unavailable supplies.
5. Identify sources of biohazard and employ appropriate safeguards.
6. Recognize unsafe laboratory practices by selecting safe practice measures.
7. Perform computer-related functions where applicable.
8. Calibrate and operate equipment, instruments, and microscopes, following standard protocol.
9. Explain the principle of operation of all instrumentation.
10. Identify sources of error in the performance of procedures due to sources such as technique, reagents,
mechanical function, etc.
11. Follow established quality control procedures.
12. Validate the accuracy of test results based on an assessment of obtained quality control values.
13. Evaluate situations where the control results are unacceptable and prescribe appropriate actions.
14. Identify reference ranges for each procedure.
15. Identify factors that contribute to pre-analytical, analytical & post-analytical variability.
16. Employ measures designed to reduce pre-analytical, analytical & post-analytical variability.
17. Correlate abnormal results with the disease that is indicated.
C. Specific Serological Procedures Group A
The student will be able to*:
1. Perform the following test procedures according to the site-specific protocol.
2. Obtain results within the limits of accuracy and time specified by the instructor.
3. Describe methodological principle of each procedure.
4. Discuss the clinical relevance of test results.
5. Identify and/or suggest specific disease states based the assessment of serological data.
6. Correlate normal and abnormal data with other clinical and/or laboratory findings in the identification of
specific disease states.
7. Suggest additional tests that may be used to aid in making differential diagnoses.
Group A Procedures:
RPR
Rheumatoid Factor B EIA
Infectious Mono Test
Streptococcal Antibody Test
Pregnancy Test
D. Specific Serological Procedures Group B
The following tests are not performed at all clinical sites; however, where performed, students must satisfy*
objectives 3-7 above as applied to each procedure.
Group B Procedures:
ANA
Toxoplasma Antibody Test
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 115
CMV Antibody Test, IgM and IgG
Thyroid Antibody, TG Microsomal (HA), and other organ specific tests
FTA-ABS
VDRL-CSF
Presumptive/differential Heterophile Antibody Test
CRP: Latex and Automated
Bacterial Antigen Tests, e.g., Cryptococcus, C. difficile
Febrile Agglutinins (RMSF)
EBV panel
HIV Antibody Tests
Hepatitis Tests
Cryoglobulin
T4/T8
Flow Cytometric Methods
*written documentation to be submitted by the student to the Program Director at the completion of all
practica.
The cognitive objectives will be evaluated using study questions and case studies which will be
graded as “P” if completed within the stated guidelines. The psychomotor objectives as outlined in the
competency checklist provided on the next page must be “met.” Failure to meet either requirement will
require resubmission and/or repeat, respectively.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 116
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Immunology/Serology Practicum Checklist
Student Name
Note: Procedures may be performed at multiple clinical sites and in different sections of the lab (for
example in microbiology). If the listed procedure is not performed at the assigned clinical site, please
mark “not done” and note if there is a replacement test or if it is a send-out (and where is the patient’s
sample sent). Do not leave the areas blank. USE THE “OTHER” CATEGORY AT THE END OF THE
CHECKLIST TO DOCUMENT ANY ANTIGEN OR ANTIBODY-BASED ASSAY NOT LISTED HERE.
Procedure
(minimum # required)
Objective/
Competency
Comments
Clinical Site/
Preceptor’s initials
Met I Not Met
RPR (8)
Rheumatoid Factor (4)
Latex EIA
Latex EIA
Infectious Mono Test (4)
Streptococcal Antibody Test (2)
Pregnancy Test (4)
CRP
GC/Chlamydia
Measles/Mumps/Rubella
Antibody
CMV Antibody
ANA
Anti-ENA
FTA-ABS
VDRL-CSF
Hepatitis Markers
HIV Antibody/Ag
T4/T8 flow cytometry
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 117
Bacterial Antigens, e.g.,
Cryptococcus, C. difficile
Molecular/GeneticTests for
Immune Diseases
Other (please specify the
test, instrument and
methodology)
Employ safe laboratory
practices
Identify reference range for
each of the above
Select appropriate supplies
for assays
Identify/validate specimens
Identify/follow QC/QA
procedures
Assess clinical significance of
test results
Correlate data, identify
specific disease states
Suggest additional tests for
definitive diagnoses
Completed form must be returned by the student to the Program Director at the end of the rotation
period. The form is also available in Trajecsys (if competencies are checked off at different locations,
more than one Trajecsys form may need to be submitted).
Program requirements are not complete unless Urinalysis and Immunology Checklists, as well as the
study questions and case studies (see next page) are submitted.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 118
Immunology/Serology Rotation Study Questions and Case Studies
Study questions and case studies are to be completed during your rotations. They may be submitted
to Immunology faculty any time but must be completed by the end of your graduating semester.
The document is posted on the Clinical Blood Bank Practicum MLS 454 CANVAS site for download
even though many immunology tests are housed in the Clinical Chemistry section of the hospital
laboratory.
Responses to study questions and case studies are to be submitted as a word document. It is
expected that the answers will be thorough, accurate and well researched. Unacceptable responses
will be returned for resubmission.
Evaluation:
Responses will be evaluated according to the attached grading scheme.
The assigned grade will be U or P. The scale is as follows:
P = Pass
U = Resubmit
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 119
Appendix C
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 120
MLS Clinical Practicum Assignments
STUDENT NAME : __________________________________________________
PREDICTED DATE OF GRADUATION : _________________________________
Clinical
Course
Course
Number
Credits
Semester
Scheduled
Practicum
Site
Rotation
Dates
Special
Chem
Immunology
Urinalysis
Hematology
MLS 404
4
Microbiology
MLS 406
5
Clin.
Chemistry
MLS 452
5
Blood Bank
MLS 454
4
Elective
Practicum/
Phlebotomy
MLS 322
1
I agree to the above scheduled practica and understand that if I fail to appear, I forfeit my right to that
assignement. I understand that I must achieve a passing grade in each of the 3 components (written/online,
practical and professional) in order to receive a passing grade in each course.
Student signature : ___________________________________________________
Date : ______________________________________________________________
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 121
OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE PROGRAM
CLINICAL TIME AND ATTENDANCE LOG
This time and attendance log may be used as a back-up to record clinical hours entered through Trajecsys
when the system is down or in case of any other technical issue. Trajecsys tutorial for students:
https://www.screencast.com/t/YIS8RjFGp
Student’s clinical time should be as close to a full-time job time as possible and practical. A typical full-time job
is 40 hrs per week. The American Society for Clinical Pathology considers anything between 35 and 40 hours
per week as “full time” experience.
STUDENT NAME: ___________________________________________
DATE
TIME
IN
TIME
OUT
INSTRUCTOR INITIALS
AND SITE
DATE
TIME IN
TIME
OUT
INSTRUCTOR
INITIALS AND SITE
MLS 404 CLIN. HEMATOLOGY PRACTICUM
MLS 454 BLOOD BANK PRACTICUM
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 122
DATE
TIME
IN
TIME
OUT
INSTRUCTOR INITIALS
AND SITE
DATE
TIME IN
TIME
OUT
INSTRUCTOR
INITIALS AND SITE
MLS 406 CLIN. MICRO PRACTICUM
MLS 452 CLIN.CHEM. PRACTICUM
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 123
Old Dominion University
MDTS Safety Check-Off
Upon admission to the Medical Laboratory Science Program, all students sign the acknowledgement of
Technical Standards/Essential functions listed at
https://www.odu.edu/mdts/medical-laboratory-
science#tab176=5
Students also review and sign the acknowledgement of understanding of MDTS Biohazard Policy and
Guidelines and complete the following safety training activities:
a. Blood Borne Pathogens Training and Basic Biosafety Training through CITI prior starting the
program.
b. Safety training modules incorporated in MLS 331, 307/308 and 312 during the first semester.
c. Additional safety training incorporated into other courses throughout the curriculum (for example
MLS 319 – Medical Bacteriology, MLS 320 – Phlebotomy, etc.)
Various safety procedures apply to different clinical practicum sites due to specific floor plans and fire escape
routes, location of safety equipment, maximum allowed occupancy in the labs, etc.
To make sure that student’s experience during clinical practicum is safe and that the student follows specific
procedures to assure safe practice, the student is required to become familiar with all safety procedures
applicable to the individual clinical site, just like all new employees hired in the laboratory.
Each clinical practicum site will assure the Medical Laboratory Science Program at Old Dominion University
that the student has gone through safety training no later than on the first day of the practicum. The extent of
training is at the site’s discretion.
In the absence of their own student safety checklist, clinical sites may choose to use the list of
safety/orientation items and signature sheet provided below. The sheet must be dated and signed by the
laboratory supervisor or safety training personnel, and by the student.
The signed list should be returned via [email protected]
to Barbara Kraj in the ODU MT/Medical Laboratory
Science Program. If you have any questions, please call 757-683-6039.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 124
ODU Medical Laboratory Science Safety Check-off List
ITEM
CHECK-OFF
1. Laboratory Policy
a. Work hours and breaks
b. Dress code (also to include, hair, nails and jewelry)
c. Initiative
d. Record keeping
e. Responsibilities; Honor Code
f. HIPAA Training (a reminder only); Patient Confidentiality
i. Report shredding
ii. Computer Use
g. Injuries
h. Laboratory cost containment – reagents, copying
i. Telephone use
j. Lab coats, gloves and other PPE, including N95 respirator
k. Food and beverages
l. Absences (illness, doctor appointments, job interviews)
m. Contact information for laboratory supervisors or lead techs
2. Annual Safety – Location of Safety Manuals
a. Personal safety and valuables
b. Employee identification
c. Workplace violence
3. Codes
a. Emergency
b. Cardio-respiratory arrest
c. (Pediatric) patient abduction/elopement
d. Bomb threat
e. Fire
i. Phone number: activation, announcement, responsibility
ii. Location of alarms, blankets, extinguishers
iii. Emergency escape route
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 125
4. Hazardous Chemicals and Electrical Safety
a. Eye wash
b. Shower
c. Toxic
d. Flammables
e. Storage
f. Compressed gas cylinders
g. Labels
h. SDS (safety data sheets)
i. Waste
j. Spills
k. Electrical safety
5. Standard Precautions
a. Biomedical waste
b. Clear bag
c. Red bag
d. Sharps containers
f. Personal Protective Equipment
6. Venipuncture regulations** (if applicable)
a. Accidental exposure
b. N95 respirator (see also PPE above)
7. Any regulations/safety training unique to the specific clinical area
** Formal didactic training in venipuncture occurs in MLS 320 – during their first week at the clinical site, the
students should be made aware of any institutional regulations about seeking care after and reporting needle
sticks. Students are not allowed to enter patient rooms with transmission-based precautions unless
they get fit tested for N95 respirator.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 126
ODU MLS Program Safety Check-off Signature Sheet
I have attended the Laboratory Orientation and received information on safety, codes, hazardous chemicals
and electrical safety, standard precautions, laboratory policy, and rules of conduct. I will adhere to hospital and
laboratory policies during my practicum.
I have read the ODU Code of Student Conduct*, understand the provisions of it, and agree to abide by it.
*Available at https://www.odu.edu/about/monarchcitizenship/student-conduct
.
I have assured the clinical site that I have reviewed the HIPAA policy available at
https://www.odu.edu/about/policiesandprocedures/university/1000/1004
and agree to follow these regulations.
Student name:_________________________________________________________
Clinical Site:______________________________________________________
Student’s Signature:___________________________________Date:___________________
Laboratory Manager, Supervisor or Safety officer’s name:
________________________________________________________________
Signature:___________________________________Date:___________________
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 128
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 129
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 130
ODU Blood Borne Pathogens Pamphlet
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 131
ODU Biosafety Manual: https://www.odu.edu/content/dam/odu/offices/environmental-health-safety/docs/biosafety-
procedure-manual.pdf
Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan https://www.odu.edu/content/dam/odu/offices/environmental-health-
safety/docs/bloodborne-pathogens-exposure-control-plan.pdf
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 133
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 134
After-Hours Assistance (Health Services)
ODU Student Health Services is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM with extended hours Monday
through Thursday until 7:00 PM during the fall & spring semesters. Summer hours are Monday through Friday 8 AM until
5 PM. If you need assistance after hours, please call ODU Public Safety at (757) 683-4000. Their dispatcher will call the
on-call clinician who will return your call.
If you have an emergency, please call 911 or ODU Public Safety at (757) 683-4000.
Local Hospitals
There are two local hospitals with emergency facilities offering care 24 hours a day/365 days a year.
Sentara Norfolk General Hospital
600 Gresham Drive
Norfolk, VA 23507
(757) 388-3551 (Emergency Room)
Directions: From ODU, go South on Hampton Blvd. for 1.8 miles. Bear left and go Southwest for 200 feet to Gresham
Drive. Bear left on Gresham Drive and go South for 0.2 miles to 600 Gresham Drive.
Urgent Care Facilities
The following is a list of urgent care facilities. Please call for directions and to verify hours. All urgent care centers listed
offer X-rays at their facility.
Ghent Station Medical Associates
930 W. 21st, Suite #100
Norfolk, VA 23517
(757) 622-8358
M-F 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sat. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Minor Emergency Care and Family Care
1368 N. Great Neck Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
(757) 412-0006
M-F 8:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.
Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sun 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Fort Norfolk Plaza Urgent Care
301 Riverview Ave.
Norfolk, VA 23510
(757) 333-0284
M-F 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Patient First
1239 Cedar Rd
Chesapeake, VA 23322
(757) 549-9935
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. daily
Patient First
332 Newtown Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
(757) 473-8400
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. daily
Sentara Urgent Care
1326 E. Little Creek Rd.
Norfolk, VA 23518
(757) 583-6338
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. daily
Sentara Urgent Care
747 J. Clyde Morris Blvd.
Newport News, VA 23601
(757) 599-6117
8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. daily
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 135
OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE PROGRAM
Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Policy
Rationale:
While it is difficult to define the subtle, intangible qualities that identify the professional Medical
Laboratory Scientist, an attempt must be made to define and convey these affective behaviors
to program students. Preclinical and Clinical students will be evaluated based on the Affective
Behavior/Professional Characteristics Objectives and the levels of expected achievement
outlined in Evaluation Guidelines. Behaviors that do not meet established criteria indicate that
students have not satisfactorily completed the requirements and expectations of the
course/program. Ratings below or above criteria must be accompanied by supporting
statements in the comment section of the evaluation form. Any failure to meet criteria should
be addressed with constructive remediation prior to the final, summative evaluation.
Objectives:
The student will be able to:
POLICY COMPLIANCE
1. Demonstrate an appreciation for the value and necessity of maintaining an orderly and
safe laboratory environment by adhering to OSHA safety regulations, program and
facility safety policies, and to practices outlined by the instructor.
2. Display professional/workplace responsibility by adhering to guidelines and policies
outlined by the program, individual courses, and affiliated clinical facilities.
PROMPTNESS/ATTENDANCE
3. Develop the highly valued professional characteristic of maintaining a blemish free
attendance and punctuality record by reporting to classes, laboratories, and assigned
clinical sites on time, notifying instructors/supervisors promptly when absence is
anticipated and meeting all established deadlines.
INITIATIVE
4. Display appropriate initiative and motivation in all academic and practical performances
by completing both assigned and unsolicited tasks satisfactorily, addressing problems or
interferences appropriately.
RESPONSIBILITY
5. Demonstrate an appreciation of the role of active participation in the education process
by displaying preparedness and engagement in the classroom, laboratory, and clinical
learning environments.
6. Display professional responsibility by accepting direction, adapting to the learning
environment, and completing required assignments as outlined.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 136
RELIABILITY
7. Demonstrate the ability to maintain intellectual and emotional stability and maturity under
stress, by producing results that meet appropriate performance standards.
8. Demonstrate, by attitude and performance, an appreciation of the value and importance
of procedural consistency and technical accuracy and precision.
PROFESSIONAL /WORKPLACE DEMEANOR
9. Display appropriate professional/workplace decorum during both the preclinical and
clinical phases of the program by complying with the guidance, instructions, and
direction outlined by faculty and clinical preceptors/mentors.
10. Comply with accepted rules of conventional professional/workplace behavior during both
the preclinical and clinical phases of the program by exhibiting a cooperative, respectful,
and collegial demeanor in interactions with faculty, classmates, clinical
preceptors/mentors, and patients.
INTEGRITY
11. Display, through appropriate professional/workplace behavior and performance,
recognition and respect for honest laboratory testing, patient confidentiality, and high
quality patient outcomes.
12. Comply with the Old Dominion University Honor Code by submitting only work which is
the product of one’s own effort (I pledge... to be noted on submitted work).
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 137
Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Evaluation Guidelines
Behavior/Professional
Characteristic
Evaluation
Exceeded Standards Met Minimum Standards Failed to Meet Minimum Standards
POLICY COMPLIANCE
No instances in which laboratory
safety and maintenance policies
were not adhered to
No instances in which guidelines
and policies were not adhered to
No more than 2 instances in which laboratory safety and
maintenance policies were not adhered to
No more than 2 instances in which guidelines and policies
were not adhered to
More than 3 instances in which laboratory
safety and maintenance policies were not
adhered to
More than 3 instances in which guidelines and
policies were not adhered to
PROMPTNESS/ATTENDANCE
No absences or failure to notify
when absent
No tardiness
No instance of failure to meet
deadlines
No more than one instance each of unexcused absence
& failure to notify
No more than two instances of unexcused tardiness
No more than one instance of failure to meet deadlines
More than one instance each of unexcused
absence & failure to notify
More than two instanced of unexcused
tardiness
More than one instance of failure to meet
deadlines
INITIATIVE
No instances of unwillingness to
complete tasks or seek problem
resolution
Several instances of willingness to
attack and or complete unsolicited
tasks
No more than two instances of unwillingness to complete
tasks or seek problem resolution
More than two instances of unwillingness to
complete tasks or seek problem resolution
RESPONSIBILITY
No instances of unpreparedness or
disengagement
No instances of failure to adapt or
accept direction
No instances of failure to complete
assignments as outlined or directed
No more than three instances of unpreparedness or
disengagement
No more than three instances of failure to adapt or accept
direction
No more than two instances of failure to complete
assignments as outlined or directed
More than three instances of unpreparedness
or disengagement
More than three instances of failure to adapt
or accept direction
More than two instances of failure to complete
assignments as outlined or directed
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 138
Behavior/Professional
Characteristic (cont.)
Evaluation
Exceeded Standards Met Minimum Standards Failed to Meet Minimum Standards
RELIABILITY
No instances of intellectual or
emotional instability that impairs
performance
No instances of procedural
inconsistency
No instances of inappropriate
regard for technical accuracy or
precision
No more than two instances of intellectual or emotional
instability that impairs performance
No more than two instances of procedural inconsistency
No more than two instances of inappropriate regard for
technical accuracy or precision
More than two instances of intellectual or
emotional instability that impairs performance
More than two instances of procedural
inconsistency
More than two instances of inappropriate
regard for technical accuracy or precision
PROFESSIONAL//WORKPLACE
DEMEANOR
No instances in which there is a
display of inappropriate
professional/workplace decorum
No instances of failure to follow
directions related to professional
/workplace behavior
No instances in which there is a
lack of cooperation, respect or
collegiality
No more than one instance in which there is a display of
inappropriate professional/workplace decorum
No more than one instance of failure to follow
directions related to professional/workplace behavior
No more than one instance in which there is a lack of
cooperation, respect or collegiality
More than one instance in which there is a
display of inappropriate
professional/workplace decorum
More than one instance of failure to follow
directions related to professional/workplace
behavior
More than one instance in which there is a
lack of cooperation, respect or collegiality
INTEGRITY
No instances of inappropriate
professional /workplace
dishonesty, disregard for quality
patient care, confidentiality or
violation of academic integrity
No instances of inappropriate professional
/workplace dishonesty, disregard for quality patient
care, confidentiality or violation of academic
integrity
Any instance of inappropriate professional
/workplace dishonesty, disregard for
quality patient care, confidentiality or
violation of academic integrity
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 139
Old Dominion University
MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE PROGRAM
*Evaluation # Evaluation of Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristics Form
*Note: This Form is available in Trajecsys. May need multiple forms for constructive, effective use of this tool. Early identification of
deficiencies is important so that the student is able to remediate identified deficiencies prior to the summative, final evaluation. Please
make sure the student signs this completed form before submitting to ODU faculty responsible for the rotation.
Student Name: __________________________________________ Date: ________________________ Course #:_____________________________________
Site: ______________________________________ Evaluator (Name and Signature): _______________________________________________
Student’s Comments (if applicable:
Student’s signature: ___________________
Affective Behavior/Professional Characteristic
Evaluation
Comments
Exceeded
Met
Failed to
Meet
No Basis for
Judgment
Policy Compliance
Safety, administrative and course policies
Promptness/Attendance
Punctuality, prompt notification, adherence to deadlines
Initiative
Motivation, completion of tasks, pursuit of unassigned
tasks, resolution of problems
Responsibility
Academic preparedness, engagement, acceptance of
direction, adaptability, completion of assignments
Reliability
Stability, production of results, adherence to practice
standards, consistency
Professional/ Workplace Demeanor
Professional /workplace decorum, attitude, temperament,
cooperation, respect, collegiality
Integrity
Professional/workplace honesty, respect for quality patient
outcomes, adherence to HIPAA guidelines and academic
honor code
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 140
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Clinical Practicum Grade Form
Student Name
Course Dates
Course Number & Name
Clinical Site
ALL CLINICAL SITES MUST COMPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING GRADING GUIDELINES: The three
written/online examinations provided by ODU are REQUIRED for students at all clinical sites.
Proctoring is arranged by ODU faculty. Although the types of practical examinations may vary by
discipline, three (3) practical examinations are REQUIRED. The three practical examinations may
include written evaluation items. Both types should be sufficient to evaluate a full range of
expected practical skills. Clinical instructors enter grades for the oral presentation, practical tests
and professional characteristics below or in Trajecsys. Final practicum grade will be computed by
ODU faculty.
Written/ Online Tests (grade x weight) Practical Tests (grade x weight)
Pre-test x .15 #1 x .25
Test 1 x .35 #2 x .25
Final x .45 #3 x .50
Oral Presentation x .05
Written Test Grade
Practical Test Grade
Final Grade Requirements
A minimum of 76% is required in both the written and practical components. A passing grade (P) for
professional characteristics is required in order to receive a grade of C or better for the course. Any
student with a grade below a C will be required to repeat the course.
Final Grade Computation Grading Scale
Written/Online Test Grade X .50 = A - 90 -100%
Practical Test Grade X .50 = B - 83 - 89%
Professional Characteristics P/F* P C - 76 - 82%
D - 65-75%
Final Grade F - Below 65%
*P = exceeded or met all Characteristics; F = Failed to meet one or more characteristics
Instructor Comments:
Instructor Signature Date
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 141
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Interprofessional Interaction Documentation
Interprofessional education aims at preparing students for healthcare environment where care
of the patient occurs in a collaborative manner. During the entire practicum, MLS students are
required to document one interprofessional interaction with a health professional outside of the
laboratory. Such interactions include but are not limited to calling a critical test result to a nurse,
discussing sample recollection with a phlebotomist, taking a call from the physician who ordered
a test, etc. The goal of this assignment is to make each student aware of their future anticipated
communication with other health professionals.
Student Name: _______________________________________________________________
Event Date: ______________________ Clinical Site/Institution: ________________________
Clinical Rotation (Check): hematology __ blood bank ___ chemistry ___ microb. __ phleb ___
Instructor who witnessed the interaction (Signature): __________________________________
Health Professional/s with whom the interaction occurred (for example physician, nurse,
respiratory therapist, etc.): _______________________________________________________
Description of the event (keeping in mind patient’s confidentiality):
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
Student’s comments/perceptions (use back of the page if needed):
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
The form should be returned by the student to MLS Program Director at the end
of practicum as hard copy or via email.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 142
Old Dominion University
MLS 404, 406, 454, & 452 Clinical Practica
Student Oral Presentations Evaluation Form
Presenter’s Name
Title
Rating Scale:
Excel. = 5
Good = 4
Sat. = 3
< Sat.= 2
Poor = 1
Criteria:
Exceeds
All Met
Most Met
Some Met
Few Met
Criteria Rating
1. Did the presenter provide an introduction?
2. Was the subject presented in a logical and organized manner?
3. Were printed materials and/or media used effectively?
4. Did the presenter effectively encourage participation?
5. Was the information presented valuable to clinical laboratory science and
laboratory medicine?
6. Did the presenter clearly relate the impact on, and the relevance to
the practice of laboratory m
edicine?
7. Was the presenter prepared?
8. Did the presenter enunciate clearly?
9. Did the presenter summarize and achieve effective closure?
10. What is the presenter’s overall effectiveness?
Total
Grade = Total x 2
Note: Complete in Trajecsys and report presentation grade on Practicum Grade Form.
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 143
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
CLINICAL ROTATION ACTION PLAN FORM
One clinical rotation action plan is allowed per student. Following a clinical rotation in which an
action plan was necessary, no further action plans will be allowed in subsequent rotations. The
form below is to be used by Clinical Instructors. Format of action plans developed to remedy
poor performance on online examinations will be determined by the ODU Practicum Course
Director.
Rotation/Discipline __________________________ Site ______________________________
Instructor:
1. Document specific skill student is deficient in the chart below.
2. Explain error to student and discuss and/or demonstrate correct method.
Student:
1. Review written procedure.
2. Explain procedure to instructor.
3. Perform procedure under direct supervision.
4. After repeating the procedure the instructor will check the appropriate column, “A for
acceptable or “U” for unacceptable.
5. If “U” is checked, contact the Program Director or Education Coordinator immediately to
schedule a meeting.
6. Upon completion of the Action Plan, both the student and instructor will initial and date the
form.
Student Name:
Instructor:
Date:
Competency Remediated
A
U
Competency number:
Competency number:
Competency number:
Competency number:
Competency number:
Comments:
Action Plan Successful (circle one): YES NO
Instructor Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ___________________
Student Signature: ____________________________________ Date: ___________________
Note: Please return a copy of the completed form to the Program Director or Education
Coordinator (Fax: 757-683-5028)
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 144
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Student Evaluation of Clinical Instructors
Students: Please fill out for every clinical instructor and return to ODU MLS office or fill out the
electronic survey (preferred). The web link is provided in each clinical rotation CANVAS course.
The link may be accessed multiple times for multiple instructors.
Site
Practicum Course
Number & Name
Date
Clinical Instructor
Place an “X” in the appropriate box that best matches your numerical rating of the Instructor
based on the characteristics listed below.
Comments:
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 145
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Student Evaluation of the Clinical Practicum/Rotation Program
Place an “X” in the appropriate box that best matches your numerical rating of the entire Clinical
Practicum/Rotation Program based on the characteristics listed below. Please return to the
Medical Laboratory Science office or fill out the electronic survey (preferred). The web link will
be sent via email prior graduation.
Comments:
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 146
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Student Records Release Authorization Form
I hereby authorize
(Faculty Member)
to review my records for the purpose of recommending me for employment and/or further
education. I give permission for the following information to be disclosed: grades, awards, class
standing, dates of attendance, participation in official class activities, and any assessments of
class and/or clinical participation.
This authorization covers both written and oral requests.
For responses that require a competed form or the generation of a letter,
I waive the right to receive a copy of the letter of recommendation from this
faculty member.
I do not waive the right to receive a copy of the letter of recommendation from
this faculty member.
Student Name
(Please Print)
Student Signature
Date
Please complete the form in Trajecsys or fill out the hard copy, sign and submit via link in MLS
457. Alternatively, provide as a hard copy to:
Medical Laboratory Science Program
School of Medical Diagnostic & Translational Sciences
2118 Health Sciences Building
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA 23529
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 147
Old Dominion University
Medical Laboratory Science Program
Alumni Registration Form
(to be provided to Program Director prior graduation, preferably via link in MLS 457)
Name
UIN
Address
Phone
Home
Work
Cell
FAX
Non-ODU
E-mail Address
Date of
Graduation
Employer
Was employment secured while completing the Clinical phase of your MLS courses?
Yes No
Are you interested in participating in the ODU MLS Alumni activities?
Yes No
ODU MLS Practicum Handbook, June 20, 2023. 148
Comments and questions regarding the content of the Student Handbook may be directed to:
Barbara Kraj, PhD, MLS(ASCP)
CM
MB
CM
Associate Professor and Program Director
Medical Laboratory Science
School of Medical Diagnostic & Translational Sciences
Old Dominion University
College of Health Sciences
4608 Hampton Blvd, Rm 2122
Norfolk, VA 23508
757-683-6039
Old Dominion University © June 2023
