Guidelines for resident training in veterinary clinical pathology. IV: Laboratory quality management—Teaching domains, competencies, and suggested learning outcomes

Abstract

BackgroundThe 2019 ASVCP Education Committee Forum for Discussion, presented at the annual ASVCP/ACVP meeting, identified a need to develop recommendations for teaching laboratory quality management principles in veterinary clinical pathology residency training programs.ObjectivesTo present a competency‐based framework for teaching laboratory quality management principles in veterinary clinical pathology residency training programs, including entrustable professional activities (EPAs), domains of competence, individual competencies, and learning outcomes.MethodsA joint subcommittee of the ASVCP Quality Assurance and Laboratory Standards (QALS) and Education Committees executed this project. A draft guideline version was reviewed by the ASVCP membership and shared with selected ACVP committees in early 2022, and a final version was voted upon by the full QALS and Education Committees in late 2022.ResultsEleven domains of competence with relevant individual competencies were identified. In addition, suggested learning outcomes and resource lists were developed. Domains and individual competencies were mapped to six EPAs.ConclusionsThis guideline presents a framework for teaching principles of laboratory quality management in veterinary clinical pathology residency training programs and was designed to be comprehensive yet practical. Guidance on pedagogical terms and possible routes of implementation are included. Recommendations herein aim to improve and support resident training but may require gradual implementation, as programs phase in necessary expertise and resources. Future directions include the development of learning milestones and assessments and consideration of how recommendations intersect with the American College of Veterinary Pathologists training program accreditation and certifying examination.