Laboratory Skills for PCAs - Part 1

Master the essentials of laboratory management, from understanding the components of blood and urine to the expert operation of light microscopes.

  • PCA

  • 2.5 hours

      Overview

      This course is designed for Patient Care Assistants (PCAs) and equivalent roles, such as VCAs, ANAs, and ACAs, who wish to take an active role in laboratory management. You will explore the fundamental components of animal bodily fluids, learning how blood and urine analysis assists the veterinary team in diagnosing various diseases and conditions. The training provides practical instruction on running in-house diagnostic tests, including the use of urine dipsticks, sediment analysis, and microscopy. By gaining a thorough understanding of laboratory equipment and high-standard testing protocols, you will be equipped to help run an efficient and professional practice laboratory.

      Intended learning outcomes

      By the end of this course, you should be able to:
      • Demonstrate how different diagnostic laboratory tests can be run
      • List the steps in setting up a light microscope
      • Match the parts of a light microscope and recognise how they work
      • Identify the basic components of blood and urine
      “I have always believed, and I still believe, that whatever good or bad fortune may come our way we can always give it meaning and transform it into something of value.”
      HERMANN HESSE, SIDDHARTHA