Responsibilities of the lab technician
Apart from science research, the medical lab personnel have to deal with many infectious specimens. Hence, one of the main responsibilities assigned to them include using apt methods of infection control. Sterilization, use of protective gloves, masks, etc. are mandatory to prevent the infection from spreading. The lab technician is required to construct, operate and maintain standard lab equipment like pH meters and titrators as well as ensure that the laboratory is well stocked. They also interpret reports to seniors and can help save on time for improved reliability.
The working conditions in the labs vary, and hence the lab technician should be wary of toxic fumes and specimens used. Those who are working in independent laboratories usually work in one shift, which can be night or day. But often the technicians are expected to work on weekends on rotating shifts. Often the laboratory technicians working at larger hospitals are expected to answer emergency calls immediately.
Educational qualifications
To work at an entry-level position in any medical science laboratory, a bachelor's degree with a major in medical technology is preferred. One can also have a bachelor's degree in any of the other life sciences but this restricts the job opportunities to that particular field. There are options of on-the-job and specialized training available in some laboratories. Medical technology programs are not restricted to biology alone, and also include chemistry, microbiology, mathematics, and statistics. There are specialized courses focused on enhancing laboratory skills like computer applications.
There are specialist universities that help you in getting a degree to perform highly complex tests. Options of associate degrees are available through technical schools. To work as a medical lab technologist you need to have professional certification in medical technology. To attain higher posts one needs to have a doctorate and many federal hospitals require a master's degree with apt amount of training and experience. Some universities offer a two-year post-graduate program, with options of exciting careers. There are degree programs available which deal with management and clinical laboratory curriculum. Hospitals offer medical and clinical laboratory technologists with specialized courses to become laboratory technicians, histo-technicians, histo-technologists, etc.
Required Skills
A career in laboratory sciences requires analytical skills along with a keen interest in health care. Some of the career options available for laboratory technologists include working in public health labs, blood banks or even clinical labs. There are ample opportunities available in the distinct sectors of education and training for such careers. The technician is given the task of examining and analyzing the body fluids, and cells of different micro-organisms like bacteria and parasites. The tasks of the medical lab technician include:
- Analysis of chemical content of fluids in organisms
- Comparison of blood for transfusions
- Checking the amount of drug levels in the blood
- Arranging for specimen examination
- Counting the cells and examining abnormal cells
You can choose to work in a supervisory position like the chief medical laboratory technologists. There are a lot of manufacturers of home diagnostic testing kits who seek lab technologists.
Training and Experience
Training is generally acquired on the job and their performance is supervised by the administrative supervisor. In house training is offered in fields like first aid, training, and health safety procedures. Prior experience in the field is required and helps for supervising the work of juniors or other lab support technicians. A successful lab technician excels in problem solving as they are detail oriented, possessing a good vision.
Employment Outlook
Career Prospects and Salaries
The salaries of medical laboratory technicians range from about $35,000 to $45,000 at entry levels. The experienced technicians can expect anything from $50,000 upwards. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment growth of lab technicians is expected to rise by 14% by the year 2016.
Like all other life sciences, you need to be ready to examine living creatures, their excretions, tissues, etc. However, the job of the medical technician involves impeccable examination and analysis. Physicians rely on these results for providing medicines and suggest further treatments. Organizational skills and personal hygiene are mandatory for the lab technicians. This prevents any errors while conducting the tests, and ensures that health hazards are not caused to others.