Guidelines for resident training in veterinary clinical pathology. I. Clinical chemistry.

BACKGROUND: The Education Committee of the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology identified a need for improved structure and guidance of clinical pathology resident training in clinical chemistry.
OBJECTIVES: The committee's goal was to develop learning objectives and competencies in knowledge, abilities, and skills in clinical chemistry; provide options and ideas for training activities; and identify clinical chemistry resources useful for clinical pathology faculty, training program coordinators, and residents.
METHODS: Guidelines were developed and written with the input of Education Committee members and peer experts.
RESULTS: The primary objectives of clinical chemistry training are: 1) to accrue a thorough, extensive, and relevant knowledge base of the types, principles, and properties of clinical chemistry tests and concepts of pathophysiology in animals; 2) to develop abilities to reason, think critically, and exercise judgment in clinical chemistry data interpretation, investigative problem-solving, and hypothesis-driven research; and 3) to acquire technical and statistical skills important in clinical chemistry and laboratory operations.
CONCLUSIONS: These guidelines define expected competencies that will help ensure proficiency, leadership, and the advancement of knowledge in veterinary clinical chemistry and provide a useful framework for didactic and clinical activities in resident training programs. The learning objectives can readily be adapted to institutional and individual needs, interests, goals, and resources.