Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science), BAS
Phoenix College Partnership Program
Student Handbook
ASU Charter
ASU is a comprehensive public research university, measured not by whom we exclude, but rather by whom we include and how they succeed; advancing research and discovery of public value; and assuming fundamental responsibility for the economic, social, cultural and overall health of the communities it serves.
Inclusive Excellence at the College of Health Solutions
The College of Health Solutions has a mission to improve the mental and physical health of our larger and immediate communities by better understanding the challenges that individuals and populations face, while striving to be part of the solution. The college is committed to the idea that every member of our society should have the opportunity for good health and wellness throughout their lifespans. In an effort to actualize this ideal, we embrace and support inclusive excellence in everything we do, including teaching, research, service, and clinical practice.
For more information on our commitments to inclusive excellence, visit: https://chs.asu.edu/whychs/inclusive-excellence
Introduction
Welcome
Welcome to the Medical Laboratory Science BAS Partnership program at Arizona State University!
We are excited you have selected the Medical Laboratory Science program and the undergraduate faculty and support staff are committed to your success in this program. As students in this program, you will have the opportunity to interact with faculty from a variety of backgrounds in the clinical laboratory field who are committed to evidence-based practice to support better health outcomes in patients, clients, and the community. The intellectual diversity and practical experience of our faculty ensures students will be given a variety of opportunities to expand their knowledge of molecular concepts and have a positive impact on the health of those they serve.
This handbook supports your success in the program in several ways. It provides shared expectations for both faculty and students. It also outlines the standards and policies set by the College of Health Solutions and the university. As an undergraduate student, it is your responsibility to read this handbook and use it as a reference as you navigate through the degree program. Please contact us with questions if any of the policies or procedures seem unclear.
As program director of the Medical Laboratory Science program, it is a privilege to support you on your educational journey. I speak for the entire faculty in reiterating our commitment to your success and we look forward to working with you to complete your degree in Medical Laboratory Science.
Jeffrey Wolz, MT, MLS(ASCP), MBcm Clinical Professor and Program Director
Vision and mission
The Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, offered by Arizona State University in partnership with Phoenix College, endeavors to provide the highest quality academic and clinical education to develop competent and effective professionals, critical thinkers, leaders and lifelong learners. Students will develop an understanding of their vital responsibility to the patient and the critical role they provide in the delivery of clinical laboratory services to physicians and other health care practitioners. This role is to be accomplished utilizing teamwork and principles of continuous quality improvement.
Program goals
The Medical Laboratory Sciences Program endeavors to establish and maintain an educational program that dedicates its efforts towards developing Medical Laboratory Scientists who are:
• Technically competent individuals possessing a theoretical understanding of technical procedures essential for exacting performance in the field of clinical laboratory sciences.
• Individuals who are capable of adjusting and adapting their technical knowledge in order to perform in all types of laboratories, i.e., size and complexity.
• Individuals with an awareness of the grave responsibility to the patient which is entrusted to them as they assume the role of a clinical laboratory scientist.
• Individuals dedicated to maintaining high ideals and standards in the practice of clinical laboratory sciences, and thereby becoming responsible professionals as individuals and members of the health care team.
• Individuals possessing the ability to problem solve, analyze, synthesize and evaluate.
• Mature, well-adjusted individuals possessing the knowledge of interpersonal skills, assuming responsibility for their own actions and capable of supervising others.
• Individuals who recognize their responsibility and contribution in the participation and success of Medical Laboratory Sciences educational programs.
• Individuals who have developed personal desire for further study and continuing education.
• Individuals who realize and accept their responsibilities as contributing and participating members of their professional associations.
Program overview
The Bachelor of Applied Science degree program with a concentration in medical laboratory sciences enables students to perform analytical tests on blood, tissue and body fluids in order to provide laboratory information for the detection, diagnosis and treatment of human diseases.
Students learn to work independently using skills and knowledge that are greater in depth and breadth compared with those of medical laboratory technicians, who are typically graduates of a two-year or community college program. Graduates are eligible to sit for a national certification examination for MLS credentials.
This handbook is dedicated to the Phoenix College partnership pathway, which includes both online and in-person coursework. Students gain admission to this program through a competitive application process. Once admitted, students complete their laboratory practicums through ASU-contracted sites.
Program contacts
Program director: Jeffrey Wolz, jwolz@asu.edu
Phoenix College Advising: https://www.phoenixcollege.edu/become-student/advisement
ASU College of Health Solutions Advising: Logan Franklin, chs@asu.edu
Program faculty:
• Jeffrey Wolz, MA, MT(ASCP) (profile) – program director, immunology, immunohematology, urinalysis, clinical placements
• Sarah Torrison, MA, MLS(ASCP) (profile) – hematology
• Cora-Leigh Alguire, MLS (ASCP) (profile) – hematology
• Wesley Candelaria, MS, CLS-Microbiology (ASCP) (profile) – microbiology
• Jovana Ristanovich, MS, C(ASCP) (profile) – clinical chemistry
Admission
Admission to the Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science) BAS is available for Spring terms. The application opens in July and closes in early September. Applications will be reviewed by the admissions committee only once all materials have been received. Official admission decisions will be emailed to the student.
Note: Students must be admitted to Phoenix College in the Fall term preceding the start of the BAS program in order to take required coursework through that college.
Quick Facts:
• Location: Phoenix College
• Start terms: Spring
• Time to completion: 2 years
Academic admission requirements
Applicants must meet the following academic requirements:
• Concurrent progression through Phoenix College or prior completion of an Associate of Applied Science in Medical Laboratory Technician
• Prerequisite coursework completed with a minimum 2.5 GPA (ASU-equivalent coursework in parentheses):
o Anatomy and Physiology (BIO 160 or 201)
o College Algebra or higher (MAT 117)
o Elementary Organic Chemistry with lab (CHM 231/235)
o General Biology I with lab (BIO 181)
o General Biology II with lab (BIO 182)
o General Chemistry I with lab (CHM 113)
o General Chemistry II with lab (CHM 116)
o Medical Terminology or comparable course (CHS 260, or HCC 145AA from Phoenix College)
o Microbiology (MIC 205/206)
Application process
Only students who have been admitted through Phoenix College and who have completed the prerequisite coursework are eligible to apply to this program. Interested applicants should first email copies of their unofficial transcripts to chs@asu.edu to have their admission prerequisite coursework verified in order to receive an application packet.
Once invited to apply, the applicant should complete the following:
1. Gain admission to Phoenix College for the Fall term, if not already admitted
2. Complete the program application, which should include:
• student information
• coursework
• immunizations
• proof of basic life support or CPR certification
• background check
• health declaration
• experience in medical laboratory sciences
• employment observation verification
• references
3. Review and sign the checklist included in the application packet.
4. Submit the materials to:
Jeff Wolz - PC/ASU MDL Program HE Building #359 1202 W. Thomas Rd Phoenix, AZ 85013
5. Apply to Arizona State University for the Spring term
Application review process and timeline
Applications are accepted between July and September each year. The selection process concludes in October and an in-person orientation session for accepted students is held at the end of October. Continued on-boarding activities will be directed prior to the start of the program’s first course in December.
Tuition and assistance
Tuition and fees
Tuition is set by ASU and the Arizona Board of Regents each year. View the general Tuition and Fees Schedule, or calculate a more specific estimate of charges, including the program fee, using the ASU Tuition Estimator Information on residency requirements can be found at Residency for Tuition Purposes
Financial assistance
Financial assistance is available through a variety of sources, including:
• College of Health Solutions scholarships
• Traditional financial aid (loans and grants).
For more information and assistance, visit the Financial Aid website.
Note: Admission prerequisite coursework may not be eligible for federal financial aid. Students who are concurrently enrolled in the Phoenix College AAS program should contact the Phoenix College Financial Aid Office for information regarding aid for AAS program requirements.
Curriculum and graduation requirements
Program requirements
The Applied Science (Medical Laboratory Science) BAS program is comprised of 120 total credits, of which a minimum of 30 credits must be taken at ASU.
On-campus integrated lecture/lab courses
• MDL 410: Laboratory Leadership (1)
• MDL 420: Advanced Clinical Urinalysis and Body Fluids (2)
• MDL 430: Advanced Hematology and Hemostasis (3)
• MDL 440: Advanced Immunohematology and Immunology (3)
• MDL 450: Advanced Clinical Microbiology (3)
• MDL 460: Advanced Clinical Chemistry (3)
Off-campus clinical laboratory courses
• MDL 421: Advanced Practicum in Clinical Urinalysis and Body Fluids (1)
• MDL 431: Advanced Practicum in Hematology and Hemostasis (1)
• MDL 441: Advanced Practicum in Immunohematology and Immunology (2)
• MDL 451: Advanced Practicum: Clinical Microbiology (1)
• MDL 461: Advanced Practicum: Clinical Chemistry (1)
Other requirements
• Minimum of 30 upper division credits
• Fulfillment of ASU first-year composition requirements
• Fulfillment of ASU General Studies requirements
Note: MDL coursework must be complete with a grade of “C” or better.
Clinical lab experiences
The clinical placements courses (practicums) are designed for the student to gain hands-on experience in the various areas of the clinical laboratory. These placements are full-time (Monday through Friday) during their scheduled periods, and students are evaluated on performance and professional objectives. Students gain skills in all areas of clinical laboratory testing in the preanalytical, analytical, and post analytical phases. There is a focus on quality control concepts, practical applications of various testing platforms, and correlation to patient condition.
Students are not substituted for clinical/applied learning site employees/personnel during the clinical/applied learning. Any employment responsibilities or time must be done outside of the clinical placement training.
Application to graduate
Students should apply for graduation during the semester of planned graduation and must apply no later than the deadline specified for that term.
Upon completion of Phoenix College coursework and award of the AAS degree, students must send their official Phoenix College transcript to ASU. There will be a directed process for students to work with the program director, advising, and student services for the processing of the Phoenix College transcript and application towards the ASU degree. The official Phoenix College transcript must be received and all BAS program requirements must be complete in order for the BAS degree to be awarded.
Please note: Granting of the degree or certificate is not contingent upon passing an external certification or licensure exam
Graduation audit (DARS)
Students should track their progress in the program by running a graduation audit, or DARS, which is the official record used to verify degree completion. For more information about DARS, visit the step-by-step DARS guide
Specializations and certifications
The College of Health Solutions prepares graduates for excellence upon entering the workplace. Since certification and licensure requirements vary by profession and from state to state, we recommend that you visit the ASU licensure website to determine if your program meets the requirements of individual state licensures or national certifications, as applicable. If you have specific questions, please contact your program director or degree coordinator.
Satisfactory academic progress
The Medical Laboratory Science program requires both admission prerequisite and MDL coursework within the program to be complete with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Students must meet the minimum requirements for each Unit of Instruction/Course to continue in the program. Students who fail to meet the requirements are placed on a deficiency status which remains in effect for the duration of the program.
For on-campus integrated lecture/lab courses, the minimum requirements are typically:
1. An overall exam average of 70%.
2. A final exam grade of 70%.
3. A final laboratory practical grade of 70%.
4. An overall lab grade of 80%.
5. Satisfactory completion of the technical requirements as described in the objectives.
6. Completion of all on-campus courses in proper sequence.
For off-campus clinical laboratory courses, the minimum requirements are typically:
1. Satisfactory completion of performance objectives.
2. A 70% on the final exam(s).
3. A satisfactory evaluation of professional performance.
Course grades
MDL coursework must be complete with a grade of “C” or better. This coursework is graded on the following scale:
Grade Percentage
A 90-100%
B 80-89.9%
C 70-79.9%
E (failure) <70%
Grades are determined by assessing the achievement of the minimum standards for each Course/Unit of Instruction.
On-campus integrated lecture/lab course grades are calculated as follows:
• 60% of the grade based on the lecture (didactic) grade
• 40% of the grade based on the laboratory (technical) grade
Off-campus clinical laboratory courses grades will be based on exam scores and/or contract completion.
Standards committee
The program’s Standards Committee is composed of the Medical Laboratory Sciences program faculty and the educational coordinator from the clinical affiliate, when appropriate. The Standards Committee continuously monitors student performance throughout each course. Students are notified by the appropriate instructor when improvement is necessary.
At the end of each Unit of Instruction/Course, the Standards Committee will meet to determine each student's status in the program as evaluated against the minimum standards. When standards are not met the committee will determine the continuance or discontinuance of the student in the program.
Academic standing, deficiency status and dismissal
Students must maintain an ASU cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher at the end of each Fall or Spring semester to remain in Academic Good Standing. In the event a student’s GPA falls below 2.0, the student’s standing will change and they will be required to complete UNI 220: Mindset Connections Program (1)
Failure to maintain a 2.5 GPA in MDL coursework or failure to achieve any one of the minimum standards for any Unit of Instruction/Course constitutes a deficiency and a report which places the student on a Deficiency Status is issued to the student. The program faculty and clinical instructor(s), where appropriate, will determine a course of action for the student to make up the deficiency. In the case that the Standards Committee determines a student may not continue in the program, a course of action will not be developed. The student will be required to complete this course of action by a specified date. The deficiency, course of action, and date of completion will be documented in writing and signed by the student and appropriate faculty/instructor(s). The student will receive a copy of this document.
When the course of action for the deficiency is completed, the grade for the course will be awarded. (Note: If the course of action involves a make-up exam, the grade will be the average of the original grade and make up grade. The averaged grade will be the grade compared to the minimum standards to determine achievement of the standard. If the deficiency is due to an unsatisfactory performance evaluation, the grade may not be awarded until the student satisfactorily completes the program.)
Failure to make up the deficiency as defined in the course of action or failure to complete the course of action by the date specified will automatically prevent the student from continuing in the program
A second deficiency at any time during the program, even though the course of action for the first deficiency has been satisfactorily completed, constitutes adequate grounds for preventing the student from continuing in the program. When a second deficiency is issued, the Standards Committee will meet to determine whether the student will be allowed to continue in the program.
Dismissal from the Medical Laboratory Sciences program prevents the student from continuing in other concurrent Medical Laboratory Sciences courses and future scheduled courses.
Appeal and grievance processes
Grade appeal
For assignment grade disputes during a class, students must contact the instructor of the course.
The process to appeal a final course grade may only be initiated by a student once the course has concluded and a final grade has been posted to the student’s transcript. Per university policy, course grade appeals must be processed in the regular semester immediately following the issuance of the final grade in dispute (by commencement for fall or spring) regardless of whether the student is enrolled at the university.
The course grade appeal process begins with a discussion about the matter between the student and the course instructor. If the matter is unresolved, the student should submit a Grade Appeal Form for further review by the program director. If this review does not adequately settle the matter, the student should begin the formal procedure of appealing to the College of Health Solutions Academic Standards and Grievance Committee. More information on all steps of this process can be found here.
Information about the academic/instructional grievance process at Phoenix College can be found here
Student
grievance
Students who wish to file a grievance about a non-grade-related matter may use the established procedure (more information for the ASU process can be found here; information for Phoenix College can be found here). Non-grade-related grievances may include dissatisfaction with an instructor, problems with a classmate or other unresolved situations.
Appealing recommendation for dismissal
1. Students may appeal a decision for dismissal from the program by submitting a letter to the program director.
a. The appeal letter must be received within 10 business days of the date of the letter of dismissal. The letter should state the reasons justifying a reversal of the original decision and provide substantive evidence in support of the request.
b. Letters received after the 10 business-day interval will not be reviewed, and the dismissal will be final.
c. The program committee will review all letters of appeal that are received within the 10 business-day time frame. The committee will submit their decision to the program director within 10 business days of receipt of the student’s letter.
2. The program director will then notify the Student Success Hub of the decision. The Student Success Hub will inform the student of the decision.
3. If the appeal is denied, the student may appeal to the CHS Academic Standards and Grievances Committee within 10 business days of receiving the denial of the appeal. The CHS Academic Standards and Grievances Committee will review the dismissal and appeal materials and make a recommendation to the dean of the College of Health Solutions. The dean will have 20 calendar days to make a final decision.
4. If at any stage, a timely appeal is not submitted by the student, the program director will recommend dismissal to the Student Success Hub. The Student Success Hub will then inform the student of the dismissal by letter.
Student code of conduct and academic integrity
ASU expects and requires its students to act with honesty, integrity, and respect. Required behavior standards are listed in the ASU Student Code of Conduct, the ABOR Code of Conduct, the Computer, Internet, and Electronic Communications Policy, the ASU Student Academic Integrity Policy, and outlined by the Office of Student Rights & Responsibilities Violations of a College of Health Solutions or Arizona State University policy will result in academic review and may consequently result in student disciplinary procedures.
Academic integrity
The ASU Student Academic Integrity Policy lists violations in detail. These violations fall into five broad areas that include, but are not limited to:
1. Cheating on an academic evaluation or assignment.
2. Plagiarizing.
3. Academic deceit, such as fabricating data or information.
4. Aiding academic integrity policy violations and inappropriately collaborating.
5. Falsifying academic records.
Information on the Academic Integrity procedure within the College of Health Solutions can be found at https://catalog.asu.edu/policies/chs
Student code of conduct
Violations of the ASU Student Code of Conduct, other than the provision concerning academic dishonesty, are more generally considered inappropriate behavior. The Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities reviews and sanctions these matters. If a student violates both the academic integrity provision and additional provisions of the Student Code of Conduct, both the college and the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities will review the matter. Each independently makes determinations concerning violations and appropriate sanctions.
Professional conduct
ASU is a community and a professional work environment. Students are expected to treat their peers, teachers, students, staff, and members of the ASU community with respect and work with them in a professional manner. Students are representatives of their program, the College of Health Solutions, and ASU. Students must demonstrate the requisite qualifications for successful professional performance, including interpersonal skills, basic communication skills, appropriate professional conduct, and satisfactory performance in field experiences.
Students who demonstrate behaviors or characteristics which make success in their related fields questionable will be reviewed by the program committee. The committee’s review may result in a recommendation for dismissal from the program or implementation of probational conditions for continued participation. Students may appeal a recommendation for dismissal by following established procedures.
College and university procedures and policies
All policies and procedures outlined in this handbook are in accordance with policy set by the Office of the University Provost. In some cases, program policies may be more restrictive than those set by university
Registration policies
Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in courses well in advance of the start of the term. Enrollment must be complete by the Add/Drop deadline for the session in which the class is offered. Courses that are dropped by the Add/Drop deadline will not appear on a student’s transcript. If a course is removed from a student’s schedule after this deadline, it will be considered a withdrawal and a grade of “W” will be recorded. Term dates and deadlines, including the Add/Drop, Tuition Refund, Course Withdrawal, and Session Withdrawal deadlines, can be found on the Academic Calendar.
Discrimination, harassment, and retaliation
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal law which provides that no person be excluded on the basis of sex from participation in, be denied benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity. Both Title IX and university policy ACD 401 make clear that sexual violence and harassment based on sex is prohibited. An individual who believes they have been subjected to sexual violence or harassed on the basis of sex can seek support, including counseling and academic support, from the university. For information on resources, visit the sexual violence awareness, prevention, and response website.
Student support resources
Academic program support
After acceptance and prior to beginning the program, students are required to attend an in-person orientation that will be held in October.
The program director is available to meet individually with students regarding questions about the program, connecting with program faculty, and more. To set up a meeting with the program director, students should email them directly.
Early in the first Spring term of the program, students are required to attend a workshop led by the program director and academic advisor to review the academic and competency requirements for graduation and begin constructing an individualized plan of study.
Students in the College of Health Solutions may access the CHS website for information on college policies and resources and advising information.
Academic and career support
• ASU Libraries
• Career and Professional Development Services
• Student Clubs and Organizations
Business and finance services
• Financial Aid and Scholarship Services (financial aid)
• Billing and Student Finances (tuition, fees, and payments)
• Parking and Transit Services (permits, shuttles, public transit)
• Sun Devil Card Services (ID cards)
• Enterprise Technology (technology assistance)
Counseling services
ASU Counseling Services provides confidential, time-limited counseling and crisis services for students experiencing emotional concerns or other factors that affect their ability to achieve their goals. Support is available 24/7.
In-person counseling: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
ASU Counseling Services, Student Services Building 234 Tempe, AZ 85287
480-965-6146
After-hours/weekends
Call EMPACT’s 24-hour ASU-dedicated crisis hotline: 480-921-1006
For life threatening emergencies
Call 911
Disability accommodations
Reasonable accommodations are determined on a case-by-case, course-by-course basis to mitigate barriers experienced due to a disability (SSM 701-02). Students with disabilities who require accommodations must register with the Student Accessibility and Inclusive Learning Services and submit appropriate documentation. It is recommended students complete this process at the beginning of the term and communicate as appropriate with their instructor.
• Email: Student.Accessibility@asu.edu
• Phone: (480) 965‐1234
• FAX: (480) 965‐0441
Pregnancy: Students requesting services due to pregnancy (SSM 701-10) should be prepared to submit documentation regarding the pregnancy, any complications and clearance to return to school related activities. Student Accessibility can work with students to foster continued participation in a program, whether that be with academic accommodations such as absences or assistance requesting a leave, or through other requested accommodations.
Health and fitness
All ASU students enrolled in in-person programs have access to Sun Devil Fitness facilities on all campuses. For more information about facilities, membership and group fitness classes, please visit: https://fitness.asu.edu
For information about health insurance and appointments with care providers, please see the ASU Health Services website: https://eoss.asu.edu/health
International students
ASU’s International Student and Scholars Center (ISSC) can provide support and answers to questions about visas, employment, scholarships and travel. International students are strongly encouraged to consult the ISSC regarding minimum total enrollment and minimum in-person enrollment requirements to support their visa status. To find more information or schedule an appointment with an ISSC adviser, visit the website: https://issc.asu.edu/
The ASU Coalition of International Students is comprised of international student organizations and promotes engagement activities and resources, including an international student guidebook, to support international students. For more information, visit: https://eoss.asu.edu/scc/get-involved/coalition-ofinternational-students
Veterans and military
The Pat Tillman Veterans Center provides guidance and support for students who are veterans, activeduty military or military dependents. For more information, please call the office at 602 496-0152 or visit: https://veterans.asu.edu/
Appendix
A: Professional conduct
The profession which you are entering is dedicated to one major purpose, the welfare of the patient. The laboratory is that part of the health care team which serves the primary function of assisting the physician in the diagnosis and treatment of disease by means of qualitative and quantitative analysis of body fluids and tissues. The responsibility of the laboratory is to provide the physician with reliable laboratory data, always cognizant of the primary concern, the PATIENT. At times, the convenience and private life of each laboratory professional and student must be of secondary concern. The patient's needs continue day and night, weekends and holidays, and must be met by all health care professionals. A career in the Medical Laboratory Sciences demands your time, your sincere efforts and your sympathetic interest in other people. These demands must be met by you in a mature and responsible manner.
Your education in the program will be a challenging and rewarding experience. By applying for this program of study you have indicated your sincere desire to become a competent Medical Laboratory Scientist. You have been accepted as a student in the Arizona State University Medical Laboratory Sciences program because of your qualifications and potential. The faculty and clinical laboratory staff will do their utmost to provide you with a well-rounded program of instruction and experience and are more than willing to give as much individual help as possible. In turn, your PRIMARY FOCUS must be your professional studies.
This program has received accreditation by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (www.naacls.org NAACLS 5600 N River Road, Suite 720, Rosemont, IL 60018) and designed to graduate only well-qualified Medical Laboratory Scientists. For this reason, the program is not an easy one. As a Medical Laboratory professional, you will be responsible for the tasks outlined in the accompanying Program Mission and Goals, Career-Entry Competencies, Essential Functions and Scope of Practice. In order to satisfactorily fulfill all of the necessary requirements, your wholehearted interest, attention and efforts must be focused on this period of education. In some instances, you will find it necessary to sacrifice your own personal plans or conveniences to meet the demands of your assignments.
Professional conduct is just as important as the technical aspects of your education. The following remarks will aid you in developing and assimilating the qualities associated with Clinical Laboratory Scientists.
During the past few years, you have had the status of a college student a person completing your formal education in preparation for entering the professional world. During the next 16 months you will be in a new phase of your education. Even though you are on the Arizona State University campus your status is now one of a professional person with commensurate responsibilities. The same holds true when you are attending the Medical Laboratory Applications Courses at our Clinical Affiliates. Always bear in mind, no matter where you happen to be, that you are representatives of your chosen profession, upon which your actions reflect, favorably or unfavorably.
A. Professional Appearance
Every endeavor should be made to display professional pride to patients, their families and other health care workers. Certainly, personal appearance plays a big part in this effort. People judge us to a large extent and they will judge the hospital/institution we represent by our appearance. It is for this reason that guidelines for dress and grooming have been established.
Every person who represents the Medical Laboratory Sciences Program is required to comply with this code. In addition to professional pride, safety precautions dictate various dress code requirements.
Individuals are expected to exercise good judgment in choosing their apparel. The primary criteria are that the apparel be neat, clean, in good taste and reflect a professional image.
Conservative make-up, perfume, jewelry and fingernail polish are acceptable.
Hair must be neat, clean, and appropriately secured so as not to fall over the face.
Dress Attire Requirements are:
1. Street Clothes with a Professional Appearance or solid colored and appropriate scrubs, if the facility permits
2. Pants are to be of conservative color and design, and should be no shorter than knee length. Denim and scrubs are allowed for on-campus courses. Sweat suits, pants with elastic cuffs, and tank tops are not permitted.
3. Dress and skirt hemlines should be no shorter than knee length.
4. Shoes/Hosiery
5. Hosiery and shoes must be appropriate, clean, in good repair and meet the safety and noise abatement needs of a health care environment.
6. For safety and health purposes flat, closed shoes (no open weaving or holes) must be worn in the lab at all times. This excludes clogs, canvas and high heeled shoes/boots. Leather/vinyl athletic shoes are acceptable. Shoes may be stored in a designated locker.
7. Lab Coats or other PPE provided by the site as needed
8. Disposable lab coats will be used in our on-campus student laboratories and will be provided to you and disposed of as needed.
Dress attire requirements for off-campus courses, Medical Laboratory Applications, may vary.
B. Safety
Students will follow all safety guidelines outlined in the ASU Program Safety Manual and adhere to safety policies in the clinical affiliates.
You have an obligation to patients, fellow students, instructors and yourself to exercise caution in your duties. You should strive to be alert to any hazardous condition and report it immediately to your instructors.
In case of fire or smoke in any classroom or laboratory pull the alarm located at the hallway entrances and call 911 to report the situation. Then use the fire extinguisher, if appropriate.
C. Ethics
When errors are made, be sure to inform your instructor. Do not hide or cover up mistakes. They can seriously affect the patient. It is far better to admit a mistake so that corrective measures can be taken as soon as possible.
Patient information is privileged and is not to be discussed with others.
Laboratory findings are confidential medical information and must not be discussed with, or transmitted to, unauthorized personnel.
D. Etiquette
Be considerate of those around you. There are numerous habits (such as pencil-tapping, humming and whistling) which can be distracting and annoying to others. All cell phones must be in OFF position.
A quiet atmosphere must prevail in the classroom and laboratory. Visiting with other students or friends during scheduled class hours is not allowed. One of the keys to good work is concentration, and it is difficult, if not impossible, to keep your mind on what you are doing if someone is visiting with you.
E. Class Attendance
Due to the professional nature of the curriculum, class attendance is mandatory. Any student with excessive absences will be put on a deficiency status (see Deficiency Status, pg. 12). If you are absent, you are required to make up the work on your own time, depending on availability of instructor time and resources. Excessive absences/tardies will be reviewed by the Standards Committee and will result in a course grade being lowered by as much as 3%.
In addition, excessive absences/tardies will result in a deficiency status per guidelines below:
1. Absence
An excused absence can be due to illness, a death in the family, or some other pressing reason as determined by the instructor. The student must call the instructor as soon as possible, but no later than 8:00 am on the day of the absence (see Directory, pg. 5). The student needs to call each day of the absence, unless otherwise arranged.
Unexcused absences are defined as all other absences that do not meet the above definition. Absences that are not reported within policy guidelines are unexcused absences. Unexcused absences are considered a serious violation of professional behavior and more than two unexcused absences will result in a deficiency status.
2. Tardiness
Punctuality demonstrates professional responsibility. Late arrivals are disruptive to the class and disrespectful to the instructor. When you are going to be late, you must notify the instructor and state the approximate time of arrival (see Directory, pg. 5).
Tardiness is a form of unexcused absence. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, two (2) instances of tardiness are equivalent to one unexcused absence, which can lead to a deficiency status.
You are responsible for arranging reliable transportation, dependable childcare if applicable, and appropriate work schedules to meet the attendance requirements.
Note: During the Medical Laboratory Applications courses (off-campus), you may have to begin as early as 5:30 a.m. in selected locations. In other locations you may have to stay as late as 5:30 p.m. An evening shift may be available in a few selected sites
F. Intolerable Behavior Resulting in Automatic Dismissal
The following behaviors will result in the student's automatic dismissal from the program:
• The use of illicit drugs or alcohol during school hours
• While taking examinations
o Talking to other students.
o Use of outside aids (unauthorized formula sheets, crib sheets, cell phones, etc.)
o Any behavior which might reasonably be interpreted as cheating (for example, staring at another person's test).
• Dishonest reporting of laboratory results
G. Care of Equipment/Laboratory
The accuracy of the determinations you perform depends upon both proper technique and wellmaintained equipment. If either is lacking, the results of the test are compromised. The equipment should be kept clean and in good working order. Whether you use a pipette, a microscope or a spectrophotometer, it is a necessary part of the determination which you are doing. Handle all apparatus carefully. Repair or replacement of damaged equipment is often both expensive and time-consuming, as the item, however large or small, may not be readily available. Students who cause extensive damage or breakage to lab equipment will be assessed a fine.
Help keep the laboratory a clean and pleasant place to work; you will soon find that neatness and the proper placement of equipment are definite assets in the performance of your work. The janitor's duty only entails cleaning the floor and emptying the waste baskets; therefore, a number of nontechnical tasks are the responsibility of the laboratory personnel. Put reagents, supplies and equipment in their proper place and clean up your work area.
H. Standard Procedures
Follow laboratory procedures meticulously. Do not make arbitrary changes in any procedure. Behind each step is a definite reason for its inclusion at that point. Remember, if you fail to follow instructions and procedures exactly, you are endangering the health of the patient, yourself and others.
I. Student-Faculty Communications
Students are encouraged to communicate any concerns, problems or complaints with the appropriate faculty member. If resolution is unsatisfactory, students are encouraged to discuss these issues with the Program Director.
J. Work/Course Schedules
Because this program is very intense and requires extensive at home study, outside employment or registration for other courses may interfere with your academic achievement. Therefore, you must discuss these schedules with the Program Director each semester. (Refer to Additional Semester Activities form.) Each student's situation will be monitored on an individual basis.
K. Health Insurance/Immunization Record
You are required to carry hospitalization/health insurance. The name of your insurance carrier and policy number will be needed. In addition, proof of various immunizations will also be required. Refer to Medical Information Record form.
L. Criminal Background Check and Drug Testing
Students must have a Criminal Background Check and Drug Testing prior to clinical rotations.
Note for clinical rotations:
It is our goal and policy to have a sufficient number of clinical affiliate sites available to a given cohort of students. We solicit various clinical sites based on our needs and design a number of which suitable placements can be made for our accepted students. In the event that sufficient clinical sites are not available for the number of students in a cohort, we will defer to the following options:
• We will attempt to find alternate dates or times outside of our traditional rotation periods, that our current sites may be able to offer and work with the student for special scheduling circumstances.
• We will attempt to recruit new sites with a new affiliation agreement.
• We will allow the student priority inclusion to complete the necessary clinical rotation at a later time when one becomes available.
B: Career entry-level competencies
In maintaining an educational program which promotes competence in performance and stimulates continued intellectual growth, the graduates of Arizona State University's Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, upon career-entry, demonstrate the following competencies:
1. Perform analyses which require a complex network of steps and variables.
2. Recognize a problem, identify the cause (technical, instrumental or physiological), synthesize alternatives and determine solutions where no criteria are available.
3. Confirm results by having an in-depth knowledge of techniques, principles and instruments and recognize the interdependency of tests by having the knowledge of physiological conditions affecting the results.
4. Establish and monitor quality control programs.
5. Supervise others by having the knowledge of basic management skills, particularly in the area of communications and human relations.
6. Instruct others by having the knowledge of basic instructional skills.
7. Exhibit professionalism by accepting responsibility for the quality of their own work and by demonstrating a readiness for Continuing Education and development in the profession.
This program allows for individualization, specialization, and flexibility which provides opportunity for the student to become a generalist or specialist in clinical laboratory sciences.
In addition to the above, the graduates of Arizona State University's program are capable, with appropriate experience, of demonstrating the following competencies:
1. Trouble-shoot difficult problems with the knowledge of clinical correlation of test results in the entire Clinical Laboratory Sciences.
2. Analyze patient data from available sources by having an in-depth knowledge of pathophysiology of disease as it relates to test results.
3. Monitor methodologies utilized. Design, evaluate and implement new procedures.
4. Direct laboratory department operations.
5. Direct teaching-learning experiences through informal and formal programs.
C: Essential functions of medical laboratory scientists
Medical Laboratory Scientists perform various procedures that directly impact patient care. It is important that every applicant meet certain Essential Functions (or Requirements). The following Essential Functions (or Requirements) must be met, with or without reasonable accommodation, in order to participate in and graduate from the ASU Medical Laboratory Sciences Program.
I. Physical Requirements – The student must be able to:
a. move freely and safely around the laboratory and healthcare facility.
b. operate delicate instruments or equipment and perform meticulous procedures; use an electronic keyboard to operate laboratory instruments.
c. use a binocular microscope.
d. reach laboratory benchtops and carry objects within safety limits.
e. demonstrate good normal or corrected vision.
f. demonstrate good eye-hand physical coordination (fine-motor skills).
g. work safely with blood and other body fluids, infectious organisms, and chemical reagents.
II. Behavioral and Professional Requirements – The student must be able to:
a. work quickly and accurately under stress.
b. organize work and direct others; exercise independent judgement; assume responsibility for own work and offer to assist in the work of others.
c. use interpersonal skills such as communication (in verbal and written English), cooperation, confidentiality, and attentiveness in a positive and tactful manner.
d. maintain professional relationships with colleagues, patients, physicians, and others in the healthcare setting.
e. project a neat, well-groomed professional appearance.
III. Intellectual Requirements – The student must be able to:
a. follow written and verbal directions to perform laboratory tests and report the results.
b. work in a thorough, careful, efficient, and organized manner, either alone or as a laboratory team member.
c. exercise ethical judgement, integrity, honesty, dependability, and accountability in the clinical laboratory environment.
d. practice critical thinking utilizing common sense and logic, critical evaluation, objectivity, problem solving, and decision-making skills.
e. accept constructive criticism and look for ways to improve.
f. be flexible and creative and adapt to professional and technical changes.