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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University

VTEC 1143: Clinical Pathology 1 โ€“ Hematology & Chemistry

AVAILABLE IN CANADA ONLY FOR STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE VETERINARY TECHNOLOGY DIPLOMA OPEN LEARNING PROGRAM

Students acquire a solid theoretical and practical background in veterinary hematology and clinical chemistry tests. Students are introduced to the use and importance of manual haematological techniques utilized in the diagnosis and treatment of veterinary disease. Hands on opportunities are provided where students focus on accuracy, efficiency and safe laboratory procedures.

Learning outcomes

  • Articulate basic veterinary hematology principles including formation of cell types.
  • Create, stain, and microscopically examine blood films of multiple species.
  • Demonstrate proper use and care of a microscope.
  • Collect and prepare biological samples for submission to a laboratory.
  • Recognize and explain abnormal morphologic and quantitative hematological conditions.
  • Differentiate selected pathophysiologic states associated with the major body organs.
  • Identify abnormal serum chemistry in the event of illness in different species.
  • Perform quality control on hematological and serum chemistry equipment.
  • Articulate the consequences of technical error to animal health and welfare in a laboratory setting.

Course topics

Module 1: Introduction to Clinical Pathology

Module 2: Haematopoiesis

Module 3: Leukocyte Disorders

Module 4: Erythrocytes

Module 5: Anemia

Module 6: Thrombocytes and Hemostasis

Module 7: Hemostatic Disorders

Module 8: Electrolytes, Acid/Base Balance, and Fluid Compartments

Module 9: The Kidney and Renal Function

Module 10: Proteins

Module 11: Liver

Module 12: Endocrine Disorders

Required text and materials

The following materials are required for this course:

  1. Rosenfeld, A. J., & Dial, S. M. (2010). Clinical pathology for the veterinary team. Wiley.
    Type: Textbook: ISBN: 978-0-813-81008-9
  1. Valenciano, A. C., Cowell, R. L., Rizzi, T. E., & Tyler, R. D. (2014). Atlas of canine and feline peripheral blood smears. Elsevier.
    Type: Textbook: ISBN: 978-0-323-04468-4

Assessments

Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.

To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 60% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the final mandatory exam.

Quiz 1: Introduction to Clinical Pathology 2.5%
Assignment 1: Prepare and Stain a Blood Film 10%
Assignment 2: Complete a WBC Differential 7.5%
Quiz 2: Haematopoiesis and Leukocyte Disorders 2.5%
Assignment 3: Complete a Mini CBC 10%
Quiz 3: Erythrocytes and Anemia 2.5%
Assignment 4: Complete a Platelet Estimate 5%
Quiz 4: Thrombocytes Hemostatic Disorders and Fluids 2.5%
Assignment 5: Complete a Full CBC 10%
Quiz 5: The Kidney, Proteins, Liver and Endocrine System 2.5%
Assignment 6: Complete and Review a Biochemistry Profile 5%
Final Exam (mandatory) 40%
Total 100%

Open Learning Faculty Member Information

An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.

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