Hologic thinprep 2000 - Design; Objective; Thinprep Pap Test Training Program

THINPREP PAP TEST TRAINING PROGRAM
ThinPrep 2000 Processor Operator’s Manual 9.1
9
Chapter Nine
ThinPrep Pap Test Training Program
OBJECTIVE
The ThinPrep Pap Test Training Program was developed by Hologic to assist laboratories in the
conversion process from the conventional Pap smear to the ThinPrep Pap Test. Hologic offers
information, support and training for the conversion process, including communicating the change
to the clinician, cytopreparatory training, ThinPrep Pap Test morphology training and guidelines to
assist with training the entire cytology staff in the laboratory.
DESIGN
Morphology Training is designed to communicate the differences between the conventional Pap
smear and the ThinPrep Pap Test. The participants use a series of slide modules to familiarize
themselves with a spectrum of normal and abnormal cytological entities on ThinPrep Pap Test slides.
This program is based on a cumulative learning process; interpreting the morphologic criteria of
ThinPrep Pap Test slides requires review and application of cytology skills and knowledge. A
systematic approach allows for frequent assessment of an individual’s understanding of the
ThinPrep characteristics and the training program incorporates both pre- and post- tests in order to
assess learning progress.
The training begins with the ThinPrep morphology lecture, which is designed to familiarize the
participants with the microscopic presentation of cervical samples prepared using the ThinPrep
System. The format summarizes the morphologic features common to specific diagnostic entities
described in
The Bethesda System for Reporting Cervical/Vaginal Cytologic Diagnoses
1
.
Following the introductory lecture, a module of known ThinPrep Pap Test cases are reviewed by all
participants. This module presents a wide variety of diseases and disease states and provides the
participant a base reference for the full range of diagnostic categories to be encountered. Review of
“look-alike” cases is also included. Through the use of the ThinPrep Gyn Morphology Atlas, which
highlights common diagnostic entities and their differential diagnoses, participants will begin to
recognize key look-alike entities on ThinPrep slides and the criteria that can be used in their proper
classification.
A series of modules of unknown ThinPrep Pap Test slides are used to assess the ThinPrep screening
and interpretive skills of each participant. Participants are required to screen and diagnose each set
of slides and record their results on the provided answer sheet designed following current CLIA
guidelines. Once complete, the slides and correct responses are reviewed individually by each
participant.