Study Guide

Objectives

The aim of the course is to learn the basics of haematology from the perspective of a biomedical laboratory scientist and to know the most important laboratory studies used in diagnostics and treatment monitoring.

After completing the course, the student:
• knows the general theory of haematopoiesis and the clinical significance of different cell lines
• understands the principles of automated cell counters and automated microscopy in hematology, and can interpret the information produced by the devices
• can outline the basic functioning of hemostasis
• is familiar with the mechanisms and symptoms of anaemias and malignant blood disorders
• can microscopically examine blood smear preparations and identify key findings in blood cell morphology
• is proficient in quality control of haematological tests and can evaluate key factors influencing the reliability of results at various stages of laboratory work.

Content

• Clinical haematology as a specialty
• Theory and clinical significance of haematopoiesis
• Hemostasis, its disorders, and laboratory diagnostics
• Basic haematological studies and automation
• Bone marrow sampling process
• Microscopic examination of blood cells, erythrocyte morphology, and identification of pathological blood cells
• Most common anemias and malignant blood diseases
• Quality management of haematological investigations

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

The student:
• demonstrates proficiency in the basic concepts and fundamental investigations of haematology
• can outline the functioning of hemostasis and is aware of the key laboratory tests used in the diagnosis and monitoring of hemostasis in diagnostics and treatment
• executes basic haematological investigations as per instructions on the course, adhering to guidelines
• prepares inadequately for practical sessions and assigned tasks
• assumes responsibility for their own performance
• understands the operating principles of automated cell counters and automated microscopy in hematology, and can interpret the information produced by these devices under guidance
• can explain the mechanisms and symptoms of the most common anemias and malignant blood disorders
• is aware of the laboratory tests used in the diagnosis of anemias and malignant blood disorders
• can interpret key findings in red blood cell morphology
• can identify abnormalities in blood smear morphology compared to normal
• understands and takes into account key quality factors affecting the reliability of results.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4)

The student:
• systematizes concepts related to haematology and can apply their learning
• works diligently, methodically, and reliably
• assumes responsibility and commits not only to their own actions but also to the group's activities
• knows the key laboratory tests used in the diagnosis and monitoring of hemostasis functioning and its treatment
• understands the principles of operation of automated cell counters and automated microscopy in hematology, as well as interpreting the information generated by the devices
• can explain the mechanisms and symptoms of the most common anemias and malignant blood disorders
• is aware of the laboratory tests used in the diagnosis of anemias and malignant blood disorders
• can interpret key findings in red blood cell morphology
• can distinguish and name abnormalities in blood smear morphology compared to normal
• can evaluate the quality of hematological research results and the key factors affecting their reliability.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student:
• systematises concepts related to haematology and can apply their learning effectively.
• works diligently, methodically, and reliably.
• assumes responsibility and commits not only to their own actions but also to the group's activities.
• possesses knowledge of the key laboratory tests used in diagnosing and monitoring the functioning and treatment of haemostasis.
• understands the principles of operation of automated cell counters and automated microscopy in haematology, as well as interpreting the information generated by these devices.
• can elucidate the mechanisms and symptoms of the most common anaemias and malignant blood disorders
• knows the laboratory tests utilised in diagnosing anaemias and malignant blood disorders
• is capable of interpreting key findings in red blood cell morphology
• is able to differentiate and label abnormalities in blood smear morphology compared to normal
• can assess the quality of haematological research results and the key factors influencing their reliability.