This program was developed with clinical laboratory professionals in mind, particularly technologists who wish to be introduced to the principles, theory and inner workings of liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for laboratory analyses, as well as directors or supervisors who are considering bringing mass spectrometry technology to their laboratory and would like a primer course to the technology and its applications. The content of this program is at the basic level and yet covers the essential aspects of LC-MS/MS system and its applications in laboratory medicine. It would most benefit learners who have limited exposure to the technology through prior training or use or those who have prior training in the technology and would like to gain understanding of the clinical aspects of LC-MS/MS.
The program is composed of ten courses, listed below. Each course can be completed online in approximately 1-3 hours and contains a lectures, readings, resources and a quiz
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Why MS and Its Applications
Yusheng Zhu, PhD, DABCC FACB, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC
Lists the major clinical applications of mass spectrometry in clinical practices and describes the limitations and advantages of mass spectrometry.
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Basic Laboratory Techniques
Judith Stone, PhD, DABCC, MT (ASCP), University of California-San Diego, San Diego, CA
Explains the differences between gravimetric and volumetric measurement and shows how to apply good measurement practices.
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MS-Grade Reagents and Internal Calibrators
Frederick Strathmann, PhD, DABCC (CC, TC), ARUP Laboratories, Salt Lake City, UT
Reviews appropriate selection and production of reagents and standard materials.
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Basic Calculations
Steven Cotten, PhD, DABCC FACB, Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH
Explains how to properly calculate unit conversions and dilutions and implement QA monitoring for MS assays.
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High Performance Liquid Chromatography Introduction
Y. Victoria Zhang, PhD, DABCC, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY
Explains the functions of HPLC system components and its basic separation mechanisms.
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Mass Spectrometry Introduction
Kara Lynch, PhD, DABCC FACB, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Describes the components of a mass spectrometer, explains applications for different scan modes, and describes approaches for data analysis.
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Introduction to Sample Preparation and Basic Techniques
Lorin Bachmann, PhD, DABCC, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA
Explains how to recognize and differentiate common sample preparation techniques and evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of implementing manual vs. automated sample preparation protocols.
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Reporting Results
Michael Wright, SEALS, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, Australia
Explains how to determine the proper ways for numerical data reporting using calibration curves and the integrity of the results.
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Implementing Mass Spectrometry
Deborah French, PhD, DABCC, University of California-San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Explains what mass spectrometry specifications are important to consider when selecting an instrument, and the financial considerations for purchasing a mass spectrometry system.
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Overall Training
Shannon Haymond, PhD, DABCC FACB, and Faye Vicente, C(ASCP)CM, Lurie Children’s Hospital, Chicago, IL
Describes the training plan components needed to meet guidance and regulatory standards and explains how to design essential tools to document training and competency assessment for a clinical mass spectrometry laboratory.
Developed with the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine’s (formerly AACC) Mass Spectrometry and Separation Sciences Division.