What do Clinical/ Medical Laboratory Technicians do?
A medical/clinical laboratory technician conducts chemical analysis of body fluids such as blood, urine, etc. using a microscope or an automatic analyzer to detect any abnormalities or diseases in the liquid. Then, they record the data in a computer under the patient’s medical records. They also analyze the results of any tests or experiments to ensure the results are accurate using special machinery or electrical devices. They also set up, calibrate, clean, and test medical laboratory equipment. They prepare standard, volumetric solutions to be combined with samples, following standardized formulas or experimental procedures. They collect blood or tissue samples from patients and observe the absence of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms to obtain a blood sample. They also conduct blood tests for transfusion purposes and blood counts.
What are the required working conditions, hours and travel for this career?
Medical /Clinical Laboratory Technicians often handle equipment up to 10 lbs. and sometimes 20 lbs. They do a lot of walking, sitting, standing, and use their arms and legs to operate lab equipment, control machines, or tools. The work environment takes place indoors most of the time. In this occupation, it involves having to wear protective items such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hearing protection, a hard hat, and personal flotation devices at all times. They are exposed to disease and infections more than once a month through work such as patient care, laboratory work, and sanitation control. They work rotating shifts and have weekend work if they do not finish their work. They also need to able to see up close and see clearly at a distance. They also need to be able to identify colors, including shapes and brightness. They need to be able to speak clearly and understand the speech of another person. This occupation does not require traveling around the world.
Entry and Advanced Salary
- Entry Annual Wage- $28,690
- Advanced Salary- $37,970