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Who is a medical Laboratory Technician?
A laboratory technician is a person who works in a laboratory setting, performing various tasks related to scientific research and experimentation. This can include preparing samples, operating laboratory equipment, conducting experiments, sample collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory records. Laboratory technicians may work in a variety of settings, including academic research labs, hospitals, industrial labs, and government agencies. They may work in fields such as Haematology, Histopathology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Clinical Pathology and Blood Bank. To become a laboratory technician, one typically needs to have a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology or Degree or equivalent and may need to complete additional training or education in a specific field of study.
Who is a Phlebotomist ?
Phlebotomy is the act of drawing or removing blood from the circulatory system through a cut (incision) or puncture in order to obtain a sample for analysis and diagnosis. Phlebotomy is also done as part of the patient's treatment for certain blood disorders.
Phlebotomist is a health care worker who performs phlebotomy in healthcare settings. A phlebotomist usually works in medical offices, clinics and laboratories. His/her job is to assist medical laboratory technologist and nurses in order to exclusively take care of the blood collection process.
As a laboratory technician, Here are some tips to excel in your job and ensure a successful and safe laboratory environment:
1. Safety First:
Always prioritize safety. Familiarize yourself with the laboratory safety protocols and follow them diligently. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, gloves, safety goggles, and closed-toe shoes.
2. Organizational Skills:
Keep your work area clean, tidy, and well-organized. Label and store chemicals properly, and maintain an up-to-date inventory of supplies.
3. Attention to Detail:
Precision is vital in laboratory work. Pay close attention to measurements, data recording, and experimental procedures. Small errors can lead to significant consequences.
4. Time Management:
Laboratory work often involves multiple tasks and deadlines. Develop effective time management skills to ensure you can handle multiple experiments efficiently.
5. Communication:
Clear communication is essential in a laboratory setting. Collaborate effectively with other team members and share results and findings accurately.
6. Troubleshooting:
Be prepared to encounter challenges and unexpected results. Develop problem-solving skills to identify and address issues during experiments.
7. Continuous Learning:
Stay updated with the latest advancements in your field of study. Attend workshops, conferences, and training programs to expand your knowledge and skills.
8. Quality Control:
Regularly calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results. Implement quality control measures to monitor the consistency of your work.
9. Ethics and Integrity:
Adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain integrity in your work. Protect the confidentiality of data and respect the privacy of research participants.
10. Documentation:
Maintain detailed and accurate records of experiments and results. Proper documentation is crucial for reproducibility and publication purposes.
11. Flexibility:
Be adaptable to changes and open to trying new techniques or protocols. Flexibility is valuable in a dynamic laboratory environment.
12. Team Player:
Work well with others in the laboratory. Respect your colleagues, offer help when needed, and contribute to a positive and collaborative atmosphere.
13. Self-Care:
Laboratory work can be demanding and may involve long hours. Take care of yourself physically and mentally to stay focused and perform at your best.
14. Waste Management:
Dispose of laboratory waste properly and in compliance with local regulations. Follow environmentally responsible practices.
15. Professional Development:
Seek opportunities for professional development and career advancement. Consider pursuing certifications or further education to enhance your expertise.
By following these tips, you can become a skilled and efficient laboratory technician, contributing to successful research and experiments while ensuring a safe and productive laboratory environment.
For students pursuing a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology (DMLT), here is some general information that might be helpful:
1. Program Overview: DMLT is a diploma-level program that focuses on training students in various aspects of laboratory diagnostics and testing. It covers subjects such as clinical pathology, microbiology, hematology, biochemistry, immunology, and histopathology. The program typically includes both theoretical classroom instruction and practical hands-on training in laboratory techniques and procedures.
2. Curriculum: The specific curriculum may vary between different institutions, but common topics covered in a DMLT program include:
- Basic anatomy and physiology
- Laboratory safety and ethics
- Medical terminology
- Microbiology and bacteriology
- Hematology and blood banking
- Clinical biochemistry
- Immunology and serology
- Histopathology and cytopathology
- Clinical microbiology
- Laboratory instrumentation and quality control
3. Practical Training: DMLT programs often include a significant amount of practical training to develop skills in laboratory techniques and procedures. This may involve hands-on experience in performing various tests, using laboratory equipment and instruments, and analyzing and interpreting test results. Practical training is typically conducted in a laboratory setting under the supervision of experienced laboratory professionals.
4. Clinical Internship: Many DMLT programs require students to complete a clinical internship or externship as part of their training. During this period, students are placed in affiliated healthcare facilities or laboratories to gain real-world experience and further refine their skills. The duration of the internship may vary, but it is often several months long.
5. Career Opportunities: After completing a DMLT program, graduates can pursue careers as medical laboratory technicians or assistants in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, diagnostic laboratories, research institutions, and blood banks. They may be involved in conducting tests, analyzing samples, maintaining laboratory equipment, and assisting in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
6. Further Education: DMLT is a diploma-level program, but graduates who wish to further advance their careers and opportunities may choose to pursue higher education. They can opt for bachelor's or master's degree programs in medical laboratory science, pathology, or related fields to gain more specialized knowledge and potentially take up advanced roles in the laboratory profession.
It's important to note that specific program details, admission requirements, and career prospects can vary between institutions and countries. It's recommended to research and consider accredited programs offered by recognized institutions to ensure quality education and better job prospects.
Frequently Asked Question
Question : What is a medical laboratory?
Answer : A medical laboratory is a facility where various diagnostic tests and analyses are conducted on patient samples to aid in the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of diseases. These laboratories are equipped with specialized instruments and tools to analyze biological specimens such as blood, urine, tissues, and other body fluids. Medical laboratory professionals, including medical technologists, medical laboratory technicians, and pathologists, work in these labs to perform and interpret test results.
Question : What types of tests are performed in a medical laboratory?
Answer : Medical laboratories perform a wide range of tests, including:
1. Hematology: Complete blood count (CBC), blood clotting tests, and blood typing.
2. Clinical Chemistry: Tests to evaluate organ function, blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, electrolyte balance, and liver and kidney function.
3. Microbiology: Identification and sensitivity testing of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, to determine the most appropriate treatment.
4. Immunology/Serology: Tests to assess immune system function and detect antibodies, including tests for HIV, hepatitis, and autoimmune diseases.
5. Molecular Diagnostics: DNA or RNA-based tests to detect genetic disorders, infectious agents, or analyze cancer markers.
6. Histology: Examination of tissue samples to diagnose diseases, such as cancer, and determine the presence of abnormal cells.
7. Cytology: Examination of cells obtained from body fluids or tissues to detect abnormalities and diagnose conditions like cancer or infections.
8. Toxicology: Tests to detect drugs or toxins in the body, often used for drug screening or monitoring therapeutic drug levels.
Question : Who works in a medical laboratory?
Answer : Several professionals work in a medical laboratory, including:
1. Medical Technologists/Clinical Laboratory Scientists: They perform complex tests, analyze results, and ensure the accuracy of laboratory findings. They may specialize in areas like hematology, microbiology, immunology, or molecular diagnostics.
2. Medical Laboratory Technicians: They perform routine laboratory tests under the supervision of medical technologists or pathologists. They handle equipment, prepare specimens, and maintain laboratory instruments.
3. Pathologists: These medical doctors specialize in the study and diagnosis of diseases. They interpret test results, provide consultation, and oversee laboratory operations.
4. Laboratory Managers/Supervisors: They oversee the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, manage staff, ensure quality control, and handle administrative tasks.
Question : How are samples collected for testing in a medical laboratory?
Answer : Samples for testing are collected by healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, or trained phlebotomists. The collection methods depend on the type of test and the sample needed. Common collection methods include:
1. Blood Tests: Blood is usually drawn from a vein in the arm using a needle and collected in sterile tubes.
2. Urine Tests: A urine sample is collected in a clean container. Sometimes, specific instructions need to be followed, such as collecting the first-morning urine or a timed urine sample.
3. Tissue Samples: These are usually obtained through procedures like biopsies or surgeries, and they are sent to the laboratory for analysis.
4. Swabs: Cotton swabs or other specialized swabs are used to collect samples from areas like the throat, nose, skin, or genital regions.
5. Body Fluids: Fluids like cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), synovial fluid (joint fluid), pleural fluid, or peritoneal fluid may be collected using a sterile needle and syringe.
Question : How long does it take to get results from a medical laboratory?
Answer : The time it takes to receive results from a medical laboratory depends on the type of test being performed. Some routine tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC),
About Laboratory Technician career
A career as a laboratory technician offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the field of healthcare and make a difference in patient care. Laboratory technicians play a crucial role in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases by performing a wide range of laboratory tests and analyses.
As a laboratory technician, your responsibilities will include collecting samples, such as blood, urine, or tissue, from patients and preparing them for testing. You will handle specialized laboratory equipment and instruments to perform tests, accurately measure and analyze samples, and record the results. Attention to detail is essential to ensure accurate and reliable test outcomes.
Laboratory technicians work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, research laboratories, and diagnostic centers. You may specialize in specific areas such as clinical chemistry, hematology, microbiology, immunology, or molecular biology, depending on the facility and your career interests.
In addition to technical skills, laboratory technicians must adhere to strict quality control and safety protocols. They must maintain accurate records, properly handle hazardous materials, and ensure a sterile and controlled environment in the laboratory. Effective communication and teamwork are also important, as laboratory technicians often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure accurate diagnoses and proper patient care.
A career as a laboratory technician offers stability and opportunities for growth. With experience and further education, you can advance to positions such as laboratory technologist, laboratory supervisor, or research associate. Moreover, this field offers the chance to contribute to scientific advancements and medical research, playing a vital role in improving healthcare outcomes for patients.
To pursue a career as a laboratory technician, one typically needs to complete a diploma or associate degree program in medical laboratory technology or a related field. Certification by a recognized accrediting body may be required or preferred by some employers.
Overall, a career as a laboratory technician provides a fulfilling and challenging path for individuals who have a passion for science, attention to detail, and a desire to contribute to the healthcare industry.
Order of Draw for Multiple Tube Collections
Note: Blood Collection Tubes also available Glass or Plastic.
| Closure Color | Collection Tube | Mix by Inverting |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow | Blood Cultures | 8 to 10 times |
| Sky Blue | Citrate Tube | 3 to 4 times |
| Yellow | Serum, Gel Separator Tube | 5 times |
| Red | Serum Tube | - |
| Green | Heparin Tube | 8 to 10 times |
| Violet | EDTA Tube | 8 to 10 times |
| Gray | Fluoride Tube | 8 to 10 times |