Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

Introduces hemostasis theory including coagulation cascade, intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, thrombosis and fibrinolysis. Presents platelet physiology, platelet coagulation disorders, other coagulation disease conditions and anticoagulant therapy. Presents coagulation laboratory testing principles, including PT, INR, APTT, fibrinogen, D-dimer, FDPs, miscellaneous coagulation testing and associates hemostatic dysfunction with clinical disease. 

• Use an understanding of hemostasis theory and coagulation test principles to make appropriate and effective on-the-job professional decisions.
• Recognize normal and abnormal coagulation test results and correlate the data with appropriate pathologic conditions to accurately advise health care providers.

The class is presented by means of lecture/discussion, audio-visual presentations, handouts, demonstrations, web based instructional media and other educationally sound practices. Case studies are utilized to allow for discussion, application and correlation of the concepts presented.  

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

Course Themes:

• Hemostasis
  • Platelet structure, physiology and function
  • Intrinsic and extrinsic coagulation pathways
  • Terminology and factors involved in the coagulation process
  • Process and substances influencing thrombosis, fibrinolysis and coagulation inhibition.
  • Modes of action and therapeutic use of anticoagulants
• Coagulation disorders
  • Platelet function disorders
  • Clotting factor disorders
  • DIC
• Laboratory Tests
  • Test principle and patient results associated with the following: thrombin time, fibrinogen levels, factor XIII assays, FDPs, D-dimer, mixing studies, heparin assay and platelet function assay.
  • Coagulation automation testing

Skills:

Knowledge and Application (Cognitive Skills):

• Cognitive processes
  • Explain hemostasis theory supporting test principles
  • Integrate knowledge and make informed judgments about hemostasis  test results  in the clinical setting
  • Formulate a clear, answerable question
  • Predict expected results
  • Follow written protocols and verbal instructions
• Analysis skills
  • Collect and organize data in a systematic fashion
  • Present data in an appropriate form
  • Assess the validity of the data (including integrity and significance)
  • Draw appropriate conclusions based on the results
• Troubleshooting and problem solving
  • Recognize errors or discrepancies in results during lab procedures
  • Select corrective actions for problem solving
• Safety skills
  • Recognize safety equipment and laboratory safety measures
• Communication skills
  • Discuss and present lab results or findings in the laboratory
• Interpersonal and citizenry skills
  • Work effectively in teams or groups so that the task, results, and analysis may be shared
  • Effectively manage time and tasks allowing concurrent and/or overlapping tasks to be done simultaneously, by individuals and/or within a group
  • Integrate knowledge and make informed judgments about general safety in everyday life

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.