Anatomy and Physiology in Practice: Applied Scenarios for Lab Learners

Fundamentals of Medical Laboratory Science

Purpose

This Applied Scenario Worksheet is designed to:

  • Enable learners to apply theoretical knowledge of human anatomy and physiology in workplace contexts.
  • Develop skills in clinical reasoning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
  • Enhance understanding of UK legal and regulatory frameworks affecting laboratory work.
  • Prepare learners to handle real-world scenarios involving patient samples, laboratory results, and anatomical observations safely and accurately.

Scenario 1: Abnormal Blood Test Analysis

Background:

A patient has presented with fatigue, pallor, and shortness of breath. A full blood count (FBC) was performed in a UK-registered medical laboratory. The lab data shows:

  • Hemoglobin: 95 g/L (Normal: 120–160 g/L)
  • Hematocrit: 28% (Normal: 36–46%)
  • White blood cells: 7 x 10⁹/L (Normal: 4–11 x 10⁹/L)

Task:

  1. Identify the major body system affected and explain the abnormal findings.
  2. Discuss possible disease diagnoses linked to these laboratory results.
  3. Relate your analysis to UK clinical laboratory standards, including ISO 15189 for accuracy.
  4. Describe the next steps a laboratory professional should take to confirm results, including repeat testing or additional investigations.

Learner Response Guidance:

  • Consider the hematopoietic system and its physiological functions.
  • Explain the clinical significance of low hemoglobin and hematocrit.
  • Suggest possible causes (e.g., iron deficiency, anemia).
  • Emphasise adherence to COSHH regulations when handling blood samples.

Scenario 2: Histology Slide Observation

Background:

A histology slide from a liver biopsy shows fatty infiltration and mild inflammation. The sample was collected under Human Tissue Act 2004 compliance.

Task:

  1. Identify the anatomical structure and normal cellular features.
  2. Compare findings to normal anatomy and explain the abnormal features.
  3. Discuss how these findings relate to potential liver disease.
  4. Describe laboratory responsibilities for sample storage, labelling, and documentation according to UK regulations.

Learner Response Guidance:

  • Include a labelled diagram comparing normal vs. abnormal hepatocytes.
  • Highlight pathophysiology of fatty liver disease.
  • Explain the role of laboratory documentation and consent under UK Human Tissue Act 2004.

Scenario 3: Urinalysis and Kidney Function

Background:

Routine urinalysis of a patient shows proteinuria and hematuria. Laboratory professionals must interpret the results while following Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR guidelines.

Task:

  1. Identify which body system is affected and relate the abnormal findings to kidney physiology.
  2. Explain possible causes for protein and blood in urine.
  3. Describe how results should be recorded, communicated, and stored in compliance with UK law.
  4. Recommend further investigations to confirm diagnosis.

Learner Response Guidance:

  • Discuss renal system function and pathology.
  • Relate urinalysis findings to glomerular disease, infections, or trauma.
  • Include patient data privacy considerations in documentation and result reporting.

Scenario 4: Cardiovascular System Monitoring

Background:

A patient with hypertension undergoes blood pressure monitoring and ECG analysis. Laboratory technicians observe:

  • ECG shows occasional premature ventricular contractions (PVCs).
  • Blood pressure: 160/100 mmHg (Normal: 120/80 mmHg)

Task:

  1. Identify the major body system involved and normal physiological functions.
  2. Explain the clinical significance of the abnormal ECG and blood pressure readings.
  3. Relate findings to disease risk assessment (e.g., cardiovascular disease).
  4. Discuss laboratory procedures for accurate measurement and reporting in compliance with UK clinical governance standards.

Learner Response Guidance:

  • Include diagrams showing normal vs. abnormal ECG.
  • Explain the impact of hypertension on cardiovascular anatomy and physiology.
  • Reference adherence to ISO 15189:2012 for accurate testing.

Scenario 5: Respiratory Function Test

Background:

A spirometry test shows reduced FEV1/FVC ratio, suggesting obstructive lung disease. The test is conducted under Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 protocols.

Task:

  1. Identify the affected body system and normal function.
  2. Explain the physiological mechanism behind reduced FEV1/FVC ratio.
  3. Relate findings to potential conditions such as asthma or COPD.
  4. Describe laboratory practices for safe equipment use, infection control, and sample handling.

Learner Response Guidance:

  • Include labelled diagrams of lung structure and airflow.
  • Explain how abnormal readings indicate obstructive airway pathology.
  • Highlight safety and hygiene standards under COSHH and HSE regulations.

Learner Task Summary

  1. For each scenario, identify the affected body system.
  2. Explain normal vs. abnormal findings using diagrams and examples.
  3. Discuss disease implications based on physiological data.
  4. Describe UK-specific laboratory procedures and compliance measures, referencing:
    • Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
    • COSHH Regulations 2002
    • Human Tissue Act 2004
    • Data Protection Act 2018 / UK GDPR
    • ISO 15189:2012
  5. Submit answers in written report format, including labelled diagrams, tables, and clear explanations.
  6. Include reflection on patient safety, laboratory accuracy, and professional responsibilities.