CLS entry level competencies in flow cytometry

Area of Science:

• Clinical Laboratory Science
• Flow Cytometry
• Immunophenotyping

Background:

• Flow cytometry is a critical diagnostic tool in clinical laboratories.
• Defining essential entry-level competencies for Clinical Laboratory Science (CLS) generalists is crucial for effective practice.
• Current educational curricula may not adequately address the practical skills required for flow cytometry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a consensus on the fundamental competencies required for entry-level CLS generalists in flow cytometry.
• To guide the development and refinement of CLS educational programs regarding flow cytometry training.

Main Methods:

• An electronic survey was distributed to flow cytometry practitioners with CLS education and certification.
• A total of 131 qualified respondents participated in the survey.
• Competencies were considered essential if agreed upon by at least 50% of respondents.

Main Results:

• Strong agreement exists that entry-level CLS generalists should perform HIV CD4/CD8 monitoring, gate cell populations, and evaluate specimen acceptability.
• Key concepts include leukemia immunophenotyping, quality control, and instrument principles.
• Memorization of extensive leukemic CD panels is deemed unnecessary, with a focus on essential markers like CD3, CD4, CD8, CD19/20, CD34, CD45, and light chains.

Conclusions:

• Flow cytometry content can be effectively delivered through the didactic component of CLS curricula.
• Educational programs should prioritize HIV monitoring and leukemia immunophenotyping concepts.
• CD marker memorization can be streamlined to a limited, essential list.