AHMT 240 - Clinical Chemistry

Credit(s): 3

Prerequisite(s): AHMT 201, AHMT 205, AHMT 210, AHMT 295v with a minimum grade of 75% in both the lecture and laboratory portion of each course.
Corequisite(s): AHMT 230, AHMT 295x.
This course includes the theoretical and fundamental instrumentation methodologies, including practical concepts associated with testing procedures used in the chemistry department. These include important aspects of acid-base balance, electrolytes, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, metabolites, hormones, and toxins as they relate to laboratory analysis. Emphasis is placed on major organ functions and the appropriate assays, collection and analysis of various body fluids, and laboratory findings to indicate disease processes. Included are applications of general laboratory principles, laboratory math, quality control, and variables affecting laboratory results. (Spring Semester)

Course Learning Outcomes

Describe the various quality assurance procedures and their uses that aid in the successful running of a chemistry department.
Interpret and discuss the biochemical processes and their analytical methodologies.
Evaluate and correlate physiological and biochemical information as clinical indicators or normal and pathological states.
Perform laboratory analyses utilizing various analytical principles and techniques and determine the acceptability of the results according to quality control parameters that are accepted in clinical practice.
Assess laboratory results and select the appropriate relationship to the clinical and biochemical states, processes, and diseases.
Utilize interpretive, analytical, critical thinking, and problem solving skills in various laboratory situations; evaluate laboratory assay data, evaluate for sources of error, resolve situational and quality control problems, evaluate/interpret laboratory data for presence of disease, solve laboratory math problems.
Demonstrate knowledge of positive professional attitude during lecture and lab.
Perform lab responsibilities/duties (i.e. maintenance, record keeping, clean up, etc.) as necessary to include, but not limited to 1) instrument maintenance, 2) preparing reagents, 3) cleaning and decontaminating lab and properly storing chemicals.
Demonstrate proficiency in phlebotomy procedures and tasks, including vein and capillary punctures and non-blood specimen processing, in an accurate, timely, and professional manner.