Training activity information
Details
Perform, compare and contrast the results for a single analyte using two of the following methods:
- Clotting based test,
- Chromogenic based test
- Immunological based test
Type
Developmental training activity (DTA)
Evidence requirements
Evidence the activity has been undertaken by the trainee.
Reflection on the activity at one or more time points after the event including learning from the activity and/or areas of the trainees practice for development.
An action plan to implement learning and/or to address skills or knowledge gaps identified.
Considerations
- Principles of the testing methods
- Statistical analysis
- The sample type required and the preanalytical variables affecting results.
- The availability of testing using different end point techniques
- Local SOPs
- Quality assurance
Reflective practice guidance
The guidance below is provided to support reflection at different time points, providing you with questions to aid you to reflect for this training activity. They are provided for guidance and should not be considered as a mandatory checklist. Trainees should not be expected to provide answers to each of the guidance questions listed.
Before action
- What specific knowledge about clotting, chromogenic, and immunological assays is required?
- What do you anticipate learning about the advantages and disadvantages of each method in relation to a specific analyte? What is your current understanding of these different assay principles?
- How will you prepare for performing each test method (e.g., reviewing SOPs, ensuring reagent availability)?
- What potential issues might arise when comparing results from different methodologies (e.g., differences in sensitivity, specificity, interference), and how will you approach these? How do you feel about performing and comparing these different techniques?
In action
- What steps are you currently taking to perform each method? Why did you choose this particular order?
- As you obtain results, are you noticing any discrepancies or similarities between the two methods? How are you interpreting these in real-time?
- Are you encountering any technical difficulties with either method? How are you troubleshooting these issues as they arise?
- Are there alternative methods you could have chosen? Why did you select these two in the moment?
On action
- What were the specific results obtained for the single analyte using each of the two methods you chose?
- What were the similarities and differences in the numerical values or qualitative outcomes produced by each method?
- Did you observe any variations in the procedural steps or the handling of reagents between the two methods?
- Were there any differences in the time taken to perform each method or to obtain the results?
- What were the control results for each method, and were they within acceptable limits?
- What are the underlying principles of each of the analytical methods (clotting, chromogenic, immunological) you used?
- What factors could potentially explain any differences you observed in the results between the two methods (e.g., sensitivity, specificity, interferences)?
- How does the matrix or the presence of other substances in the sample potentially affect each of the methods?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of using each of these methods for this particular analyte in a clinical laboratory setting?
- Were there any unexpected challenges encountered during the performance of either method?
- What did you learn about troubleshooting these issues?
- How will this experience influence your understanding of method selection when considering different analytes or clinical scenarios in the future?
- What further learning or investigation would be beneficial to deepen your understanding of these different analytical principles and their applications?
- How can you apply this knowledge to the interpretation of laboratory results obtained using different methodologies in your routine practice?
- Will this experience inform how you approach method comparison or validation studies in the future?
Beyond action
- Have you had opportunities to perform similar comparative analyses since completing this training activity?
- Have you reviewed your initial reflections (reflect-on-action) for this activity in light of subsequent experiences with different testing methods?
- Consider other training activities where you have used or interpreted results from clotting, chromogenic, or immunological based tests. How do the experiences compare?
- Have you discussed your approach and findings with peers or colleagues? Has their perspective changed your understanding of the strengths and limitations of these methods?
- How has this training activity influenced your understanding of the principles and limitations of different analytical techniques in haematology? Has comparing these methods helped you to critically evaluate laboratory results in your routine work?
- Can you identify instances where your understanding of the nuances between these methods has informed your decision-making in the lab?
- Have the skills developed in this activity, such as attention to detail and analytical comparison, been transferable to other aspects of your work?
- How will your deeper understanding of these different methodologies inform your approach to new tests or technologies you might encounter in the future?
- Will this experience help you to troubleshoot issues related to different assay principles more effectively?
- How might the ability to compare and contrast different testing methods contribute to your professional development and potential involvement in method validation or implementation?
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 1 |
Outcome
Identify appropriate clinical and laboratory investigations for the investigation of haemostasis. |
| # 2 |
Outcome
Interpret and report results of investigations of haemostasis in the correct clinical context. |
| # 7 |
Outcome
Perform quality assurance and control tasks across the range of investigations. |