Introduction to the Principles of Laboratory Medicine

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Recent decades have seen a dramatic expansion in the services of clinical laboratories. A basic understanding of the laboratory testing process is an essential but underemphasized aspect in medical training. Furthermore, overordering, underordering, and misordering of diagnostic tests, including lab tests, are common. These are occurring in an era of increased focus on appropriate use and conservation of resources. These modules have been developed to begin closing the gap in education on the basic principles of laboratory testing and to aid physicians in recognizing the important roles that laboratory medicine professionals have within the health care team. Methods These PowerPoint modules were developed as independent learning modules for the second-year medical school course Mechanisms of Human Disease (MHD), but could also be led by faculty in an interactive group/lecture format. They were used in the former manner, with the principles of the modules reemphasized during case-based small-group case discussions with clinical faculty. The cases integrate concepts learned in lecture—pathophysiologic and morphologic changes which result in alterations of lab tests. Competence is later assessed via multiple-choice questions during a course exam. The resource includes examples of integration of curriculum objectives into small-group case discussions and multiple choice self-assessment or exam questions. Results A survey was distributed to fourth-year medical students inquiring about their knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward laboratory medicine. A large number of students commented that they became “comfortable” “practicing” the interpretation of laboratory data during MHD small-group case discussions. Additionally, the Introduction to Laboratory Medicine curriculum, integrated with students' hunger for pathophysiology and patient care, has overall received positive student feedback on course evaluations. Discussion The material is relevant yet presented concisely and in an unintimidating fashion. The goal is for the students to build upon this foundation in laboratory medicine during their clerkships. These modules were developed for medical students, but can be used at all levels of training whenever the principles of ordering and interpreting laboratory data in clinical medicine are addressed.

Keywords

• Diagnostic Testing
• Laboratory Medicine
• Clinical Laboratory
• Clinical Laboratory Science
• Laboratories