Field Visit of Medical Biochemical Analysis Students to the Specialized Laboratory at Hawler International Hospital

The College of Medical Technologies – Department of Medical Biochemical Analysis at Cihan University–Erbil organized a scientific field visit to the Specialized Laboratory at Hawler International Hospital on Tuesday, 14th October 2025, under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Zubayda Hisham Shakr and Laboratory Assistant Ms. Manar Firas.

The students were welcomed by Mr Kasper Ismaeil Abdullah. The visit began with a guided tour through various sections of the laboratory, including the sample collection unit, hematology department, clinical chemistry section, and microbiology laboratory. The supervisors provided detailed explanations about the operation principle of the CBC analyzer, which is based on volumetric and optical analysis to count and differentiate blood cells. They also discussed the type of sample required—a venous blood sample collected in a tube containing the anticoagulant EDTA.

Students were shown how the device provides various results such as red and white blood cell counts, platelet numbers, hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit values, and red blood cell indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC). After the theoretical explanation, students participated in a hands-on session, during which real samples were processed using the analyzer. They observed the testing stages, data display on the screen, and methods of interpreting and comparing the results with normal reference ranges.

The supervisors also emphasized the importance of the CBC test in diagnosing medical conditions such as anemia, infections, and platelet disorders. In addition, they reinforced laboratory safety procedures, including the proper use of gloves, lab coats, and safe handling of biological samples.