The course aims to give the student the knowledge to learn the rationale for interpreting laboratory data. The analytical flow will be presented with particular attention to the sources of variability of the laboratory data linked to the pre-analytical phases, which will be described in detail for conventional clinical pathology analyses and in vitro diagnostics to learn the essential procedures for collecting biological samples. Knowledge and understanding: - To know how to control and standardize pre-analytical processes in laboratory diagnostics. Ability to apply knowledge and understanding - Students will be able to distinguish pre-analytical variables, their impact on the results of analytical laboratory tests, and possible methods to control and standardize the pre-analytical processes in the context of diagnostic laboratories. Autonomy of judgment - Independent judgment will be developed through the preparation for the exam, which requires individual re-elaboration and assimilation of the material presented during lessons. Communication skills- Lessons will be carried out by encouraging students to interact to improve their scientific vocabulary, structure questions, and discuss their theses. Learning ability- Learning ability is stimulated by elaborating on the topics presented during lectures. Learning skills will be assessed during the student examination.

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The student will be informed on the variables involved in the pre-analytical processes in laboratory diagnostics and their impact on the total test process. Students will be trained on the importance of standardizing and controlling the pre-analytical processes starting from the clinical request for an exam to the beginning of the analytical phase. Students will be instructed on the possible pre-analytical workflows in the collection of different clinical samples, also aimed at in vitro diagnostic tests.

None. PDF files of the powerpoint presentations will be uploaded in Moodle or Teams platform.

1. Laboratory workflow: from pre-analytic to post-analytic issues 2. Clinical risk 3. The use of ISO standards and CEN documents for higher-quality samples. 4. The sources of variability in the pre-analytical and analytical workflow 5. Pre-analytical variables and their impact: sample collection (chain of custody, patient/sample identification, transport, variables affecting transportation,.) 6. Blood withdrawal and sampling for clinical chemistry lab and in vitro diagnostics. Analytical interference. 7. Urine sampling 8. Liquor sampling 9. Stool sampling 10. Sampling of saliva, sweat, and tears 11. Sampling of body fluids from closed cavity (es, synovial fluid, ascites, .). 12. Sampling of solid tissues for biopsies.

Seminars based on PowerPoint presentations and videos.

The PowerPoint presentations related to the lectures will be available to students in moodle@units and/or Microsoft Teams platforms. Any changes to these indications, which may become necessary, will be communicated on the Department's and Degree Course websites and Lecture course Moodle page.

The exam is a written examination, which consists of a multiple-choice test organized on Moodle platform in person. The written examination consists of 30 questions aimed at ascertaining the knowledge and understanding of the student on the theoretical and methodological contents indicated in the program, as well as the ability to apply the theory and understand correctly the topics proposed. Passing the test refers to the correct answer to at least 18 questions. The final evaluation of the test is given in terms of approval / non-approval.

This course explores topics closely related to one or more goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs)