Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

This course briefly reviews basic mathematic operations and its application to the clinical laboratory setting. The student is encouraged to pay special attention to detail and to report results according to laboratory protocol.  Neatness and completeness are emphasized. Once problems are solved mathematically, the student is challenged to describe how to put the solution in practical terms in a laboratory setting where there are limitations, such as reagent and sample amounts, and equipment availability. 

Upon completion of the course students should be able to:

• Convert between units of measure commonly employed in the clinical laboratory.
• Calculate how to prepare reagents and specimens for laboratory testing given the amount, concentration, and equipment limitations.
• Report laboratory results appropriately.

The class is presented through lecture/discussion, audio-visual presentations, handouts, demonstrations, web based instructional media and other educationally sound practices. 

Assessment methods may include written and practical examinations, homework assignments and discussion activities. 

Course Themes:

• Arithmetic and algebra
• Systems of measurement
• Rounding and significant digits
• Reporting results and exponential notation
• Solutions and concentrations
• Dilutions and titers
• Normality, molarity and molality

Skills:

Knowledge and Application (Cognitive Skills):

• Convert between units of measure commonly employed in the clinical laboratory
• Solve mathematical calculations necessary to prepare reagents and specimen samples for diagnostic testing
• Calculate and report laboratory results

 Performance (Psychomotor Skills):

• Handwrite calculations and results in a neat, clear and complete form in accordance to laboratory protocol
• Operate a non-programmable calculator

Professional (Affective) Skills:

• Demonstrate interest, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn as seen through active participation.
• Show initiative and motivation as demonstrated by independence in performing routine procedures, preparation before class, decreased need for supervision, willingness to go beyond the required assignments, and recognition of opportunities to improve quality and productivity of work.
• Adapt to stressful and/or new situations by maintaining composure and flexibility without compromising individual integrity.
• Exhibit teamwork through cooperation, courtesy, respect, and sensitivity towards others.
• Convey a professional attitude as shown by an appropriate level of confidence and a positive outlook toward work and other people.
• Demonstrate integrity as shown by the admission and documentation of errors, recognition of the potential danger of short cuts, and the maintenance of patient and co-worker confidentiality.
• Act responsibly and reliably as measured by punctuality, attendance, dependability, and quality of work.
• Respond favorably to supervision and feedback.
• Persevere until task is completed satisfactorily.