Course description
This course provides the foundation needed to perform basic veterinary laboratory procedures. Topics include care and maintenance of laboratory equipment, materials and methods used to perform common diagnostic tests, sample preparation and submission, accurate record keeping, parasite identification and hematology.
Course content
Introduction to laboratory equipment:
- function, care and maintenance of a compound microscope, refractometer and centrifuge
- instrument calibration
Sample handling:
- sample collection, preparation and analysis
- laboratory requisition forms
- record keeping
Parasitology:
- life cycles and zoontic potential of internal and external parasites common in veterinary medicine
- diagnostic techniques, gross and microscopic identification
Hematology:
- function and formation of blood cells
- diseases and abnormalities of blood
- hemostasis
- complete blood count, packed cell volume and serum protein measurement
- white and red blood cells and platelet identification
- white blood cell differentials, red blood cell and platelet counts
Learning activities
Learning activities may include recorded lectures, group work, presentations, case studies, discussion boards, preparation of client handouts, quizzes, written assignments, client communication simulations and guest speakers.
Means of assessment
Assessment will be in accordance with Douglas College Evaluation Policy. The instructor will present a written course outline with specific evaluation criteria at the beginning of the semester.
Evaluation will be based on:
Assignments: 10-40% (no assignment worth more than 20%)
Quizzes: 10-20% (no quiz worth more than 10%)
Term test(s): 10-30%
Final examination: 30-40%
Total: 100%
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
- discuss the set-up and maintenance of a veterinary practice laboratory;
- describe the use of common laboratory equipment, including the compound microscope, refractometer, centrifuge, and other equipment used in parasitology and hematology;
- describe the calibration of a compound microscope;
- identify the common parasites of small and large animals;
- describe the life cycles, zoonotic potential and control methods for common veterinary parasites;
- discuss diagnostic tests routinely used in veterinary parasitology;
- describe techniques used to collect laboratory samples;
- describe the function, formation, and abnormalities of components of blood;
- discuss routine testing used in hematology;
- complete laboratory submission forms;
- explain how to prepare laboratory samples for submission.
Textbook materials
Consult the Douglas College Bookstore for the latest required textbooks and materials. Example textbooks and materials may include:
- Sirois, Margi. (Current Edition). Laboratory Procedures for Veterinary Technicians. Elsevier.