Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Overview
Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians run scientific tests on blood, urine, and other body samples to help doctors diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. They use microscopes, centrifuges, and automated analyzers to look for abnormal cells, bacteria, or unusual chemical levels, then record and report their results using computers and data charts. Some technicians help train newer staff, keep sensitive lab equipment calibrated and sterile, and may assist with research projects that test new ways to detect or control illnesses.
Did you know?
Most positions require an associate degree in medical laboratory technology and certification from organizations like ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology) to meet US healthcare standards.
At a Glance
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Service Orientation
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct blood tests for transfusion purposes and perform blood counts.
- Collect blood or tissue samples from patients, observing principles of asepsis to obtain blood sample.
- Conduct chemical analyses of body fluids, such as blood or urine, using microscope or automatic analyzer to detect abnormalities or diseases and enter findings into computer.
- Supervise or instruct other technicians or laboratory assistants.
- Consult with a pathologist to determine a final diagnosis when abnormal cells are found.
- Analyze and record test data to issue reports that use charts, graphs, or narratives.
- Set up, maintain, calibrate, clean, and test sterility of medical laboratory equipment.
- Prepare standard volumetric solutions or reagents to be combined with samples, following standardized formulas or experimental procedures.
- Perform medical research to further control or cure disease.
- Examine cells stained with dye to locate abnormalities.
- Obtain specimens, cultivating, isolating, and identifying microorganisms for analysis.
- Analyze the results of tests or experiments to ensure conformity to specifications, using special mechanical or electrical devices.
- Test raw materials, processes, or finished products to determine quality or quantity of materials or characteristics of a substance.
Career Considerations
Education and Certification Requirements
Most positions require an associate degree in medical laboratory technology and certification from organizations like ASCP (American Society for Clinical Pathology) to meet US healthcare standards.
Strong Job Growth Outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects faster-than-average job growth due to America's aging population and increasing demand for medical diagnostic testing.
Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Technicians must adhere to strict OSHA safety protocols and CLIA regulations while handling potentially infectious materials in American healthcare facilities.