Clinical Laboratory Technician
Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians perform routine or complex medical laboratory tests for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.
Average Hourly Earnings
$24.01
Education
Associate Degree
Tasks
- Analyze body fluids, such as blood, urine, or spinal fluid, and record normal or abnormal findings
- Collect and study blood samples to determine the number of cells, their blood group, blood type, or compatibility for transfusion purposes
- Operate, calibrate, or maintain equipment like spectrophotometers, calorimeters, flame photometers, or computer-controlled analyzers
- Use automated equipment and instruments that can perform a number of tests at the same time
- Analyze laboratory findings to make sure results are accurate
- Record data from medical tests and enter results into a patient's medical record
- Discuss results and findings of laboratory tests and procedures with physicians
- Supervise or train other medical laboratory technicians
Work Environment
Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians regularly face pressure to be accurate, complete work on time, and make well-informed decisions. They wear protective masks, gloves, and goggles for their safety and protection because they work with infectious specimens or materials that produce fumes. Few hazards exist if they follow safety procedures. These workers stand for long periods, and they may need to lift or turn disabled patients to collect samples. Most clinical laboratory technologists and technicians work full time. Those who work in 24-hour facilities, such as hospitals and some independent laboratories, may work evening, weekend, or overnight hours.
Key Traits
Realistic. Often involves work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. Usually includes working with actual materials – many times in an outdoor setting. Investigative— Frequently requires working with ideas and involve an extensive amount of thinking. May involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.