Medical Laboratory Assistant/Technician Diploma in Toronto

Introduction to Clinical Lab Structure and Function, and Laboratory tests will familiarize students with the clinical laboratory standard practice. Students are introduced to the various departments in a medical laboratory, the kinds of tests done in each department, and the reasons patients have lab tests performed. Included are the use of the 24-hour clock, the laboratory test directory, and common abbreviations for MLA/T's and associated professional associations.

This course gives the student an overview of the human anatomy and the terminology associated with each body system. The gross anatomy and microanatomy of tissues and specific organ systems are taught to students, with a focus on histology in particular. Students investigate the connections between the regulatory mechanisms that uphold homeostasis and the organ systems. The students will learn the basic anatomical structures of the body and identify commonly used abbreviations in the healthcare field. The emphasis of this course is placed on the proper use of the elements of medical terminology, such as prefixes, suffixes, and root words.

This course will introduce the student to the concept of safety in the laboratory environment for patients, coworkers, and the medical laboratory assistant/technician. Students will develop an awareness and understanding of federal and provincial legislation, regulations, and guidelines related to safety in the laboratory; and complete WHMIS training. Students will also gain hands-on experience related to the safety policies and procedures associated with the ACA laboratory. Students also acquire proficiency in Cardiopulmonary resuscitation(CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) usage and vital skills for immediate and life saving intervention. Students who successfully complete this class will be awarded the standard CPR certification.

This comprehensive course offers an in-depth exploration of clinical chemistry, urinalysis, and body fluids. Designed for Medical Laboratory Assistants (MLAs) and Technicians, it covers fundamental principles, laboratory techniques, and practical applications essential for medical diagnostics. Topics include enzymology, blood gas analysis, electrolyte analysis, urinalysis, and microbial identification. Emphasis is placed on laboratory protocols, infection control, and interpretation of diagnostic results related to various medical conditions.

This course is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and hands-on expertise required for efficient blood specimen collection. This comprehensive course covers venipuncture and capillary puncture techniques, emphasizing precision, infection control, and patient comfort. Students will gain a thorough understanding of blood collection tube identification, requisition form interpretation , and the ethical considerations inherent in this crucial health care practice.

The anatomy and physiology of the heart are explored and the devices that monitor the heart are examined. Students will learn the theory and procedures involved in performing an Electrocardiogram and 24-hour Holter Monitor. They will perform proper electrode placements and lead hookups and identify and correct any technical errors that may affect the ability of the cardiologist to accurately interpret the ECG and diagnose the patient's condition. They will also learn how to deal with patients in unusual circumstances such as amputees and those who cannot lie down.

The Cells, Cytology, and Anatomic Pathology course discusses the anatomy and physiology of cells and tissues. The student will learn about cellular transport and reproduction; passive and active cell transport; mitosis; and meiosis. The different types of tissues and the differences between cancerous and non-cancerous growths are examined as an entrance point into the study of Cytology. Students will learn to identify sample types, the corresponding test(s), and the appropriate testing department.

This course provides in-depth understanding of both practical and theoretical knowledge in the areas of blood banking and hematology. Along with the processes of coagulation and hemostasis, multiple components of human blood are discussed, as well as their formation, function and related illnesses. The methods and standard laboratory tests used in the diagnosis of blood diseases are covered in the theory and practical sessions.The course covers the theoretical and practical aspects of blood formation, cell structure, and function, as well as blood typing, transfusion medicine, and donor management. Students will gain hands-on experience in the analysis of blood samples, including routine hematological tests such as complete blood counts (CBC), peripheral blood smears, and coagulation studies. Additionally, the course emphasizes the importance of blood bank operations, including blood collection, storage, compatibility testing, and the handling of blood products for transfusion.

This course offers comprehensive coverage of essential concepts and techniques relevant to Medical Laboratory Assistants. Students will delve into the fundamentals of Microbiology, including microbial structure, function and classification. Emphasis is placed on the identification and cultivation of clinically significant microorganisms, along with the principles of sterilization, disinfection, and infection control measures. Additionally, students will explore the role of microorganisms in human health and disease with a focus on diagnostic procedures and laboratory protocols commonly employed in medical settings.

The Career Preparation consists of different topics, including Self-Assessment, Resume Writing, Cover Letter Preparation, Job Search Strategies, and Interview Skills Improvement. Each module is delivered online with a combination of theoretical principles, samples, exercises, and fun interactions. The instructor, usually the Employment Counselor from ABM College, has a strong background and expertise in employment counseling or coaching.

This course will provide aspiring Medical Laboratory Assistants an in-depth understanding of the fundamentals of professionalism. Students will get an idea of what is expected of them as professionals working as medical laboratory technicians in accordance with the Standards of Practice published by the College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Ontario (CMLTO) and the Medical Laboratory Professionals' Association of Ontario (MLPAO).

The student will be able to put the theory and practical skills they learned in the prerequisite courses to use in this simulated clinical setting. Students will benefit from the simulated clinical experience as they get ready for Practicum, which is held in private laboratories or walk-in Clinics. The abilities that will be the main focus of the simulated clinical experience will include microbiology, histology, and cytology staining of slides, as well as smear preparation. The inoculation of culture media will also be covered. Additional practice in phlebotomy, urinalysis, and instrumentation will be included in this clinical encounter. Under the close supervision of a medical laboratory professional preceptor, students consolidate the skills and information they have acquired throughout the program in the clinical context. In order to complete every task on the medical laboratory assistant competency profile, students must apply both their theoretical knowledge and practical abilities. The foundation for the shift to professional practice is the experiential learning gained from this placement.