A medical lab technologist's role is to provide accurate laboratory results.

The test results are utilized by clinical practitioners to confirm or rule out diagnoses, examine the effects of various medical therapies and to monitor chronic disease changes. Medical lab technologists perform complicated tests such as chemical, microscopic, immunologic, hematological, biological and bacteriological. They utilize microscopes and analytical equipment to analyze blood and other body fluids. They check for parasites, bacteria and other types of microorganisms. Due to their tasks, they're trained to work with infectious specimens. In addition, their work has become more analytical and less hands-on due to automation and computer technology. Lab technologists utilize techniques including bone marrow counts and manual white blood cell differentials. They also analyze test results and design and make modifications to procedures. Overseeing programs to make sure tests are accurate is part of the occupation. Lab technologists also look for anomalies in test results and correct the problems with instrumentation. In addition, they consult with doctors and nurses regarding the selection of the correct lab tests and collection procedures. Lab technologists employed in large laboratories typically have a specialty. Those working in small laboratories perform a variety of tests. Specialties are available in numerous areas including microbiology, genetics, parasitology, mycology, immunohematology, cytotechnology, immunology and molecular. Laboratory technologists usually have more education and training than lab technicians. Technologists are typically required to have a bachelor's degree. Technologists perform more complicated procedures and tests than technicians.

Responsibilities

Make cultures of tissue samples and body fluids to determine if parasites, bacteria, fungi or other microorganisms exist Evaluate samples for chemical content or a chemical reaction and ascertain the concentrations of particular compounds Type and cross-match blood samples for transfusions Perform tests such as metabolic panel, electrolyte panel, complete blood count and liver function tests Examine the chemical content of fluids Perform urinalysis, renal function, lipid profile, thyroid function and coagulation profile tests Perform tests on routine cultures Test drug levels in patient's blood to determine how a patient is responding to treatment Prepare specimens for examination Check for abnormal cells in body fluids Analyze test results Detect and remove contaminated or sub-standard specimens Monitor, screen and troubleshoot analytical equipment Calibrate laboratory equipment Utilize automated equipment and computerized instruments to simultaneously perform numerous tests Job Characteristics Lab technologists usually wear protective goggles, masks and gloves. Laboratories are usually clean, however sometimes fumes are produced by solutions, specimens and reagents. Those in the profession should be able to perform well under pressure, pay close attention to details and have good analytical judgement. Good manual dexterity and normal color vision are also important. In addition, they should be proficient with computers. Laboratory workers in large hospitals typically work the day, evening or night shift. Also, they sometimes have to work on weekends and holidays. Medical laboratory technologists that work in small facilities may have rotating work shifts. In some facilities, they may be called at night or during the weekends, in case of an emergency.

Employment Outlook
The median annual earnings for medical and clinical lab technologists in 2006 was $49,700. There were about 167,000 positions for medical and clinical laboratory technologists in 2006. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, estimates a 14% growth rate in the employment of clinical laboratory workers from 2006 to 2016, which is faster than average for all other occupations. The majority of the increase in demand for laboratory workers will be due to population growth and the development of new types of tests. Employment for laboratory jobs is expected to grow the fastest in medical and diagnostic laboratories and physician offices. However, hospitals are projected to be the major employers. It's projected that the need for clinical laboratory workers will exceed the number of workers available. Experienced lab technologists have opportunities to advance into supervisory positions in laboratory work. They also may become chief medical or clinical laboratory technologists and laboratory managers in hospitals. A graduate degree in medical technology, chemistry, biological sciences, education or management along with professional certification typically speeds up career advancement. Medical Lab Technologist Schools, Certification, and Licensing Medical lab technologists usually obtain a bachelor's degree in medical technology, also referred to as clinical laboratory science, or a degree in one of the life sciences. Some may qualify as a medical lab technologist with a combination of onthe-job training, specialized training and education. In addition, the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act requires technologists that perform very complex tests to have, at a minimum, an associate degree. Universities and hospitals provide medical technology education programs. In the majority of medical technology curriculums, students take classroom courses for three years and are provided with clinical rotations for one year. Some programs include different time frames for classroom learning and clinical rotations. During clinical rotations, the students are provided with hands-on training in each laboratory subject and perform diagnostic testing in a laboratory. The education programs typically included courses in microbiology, chemistry, biological sciences, mathematics and statistics. Specialized courses are also included. Some of the programs include training in computer applications. Those seeking to specialize in the profession, often take unique undergraduate education courses for their specialty. However, the majority of medical technologists are generalists. The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences accredits a large number of programs for medical lab technologists. The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools provide accreditation for distinct fields for clinical laboratory workers. In order for lab technologists to be licensed, they often must have a bachelors's degree and pass an exam. However, the requirements vary by state and by the specialty. Many employers prefer to hire laboratory personnel that have been certified by a recognized professional association. Associations offering accreditation include the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the National Accrediting Agency for Laboratory Personnel and the Board of Registry of the American Association of Bioanalysts. The agencies have different requirements for certification.

Career Story: Medical Technologist At A Hospital

Medical Technologist At A Hospital Job Title: Medical Technologist Type of Company: I work in a hospital in southern New Hampshire. Education: BA, Medical Technology, Merrimack College Previous Experience: After college I worked as a medical technologist in the blood bank at large hospital in Boston. After 8 years, I decided to find a job closer to home and I currently work as a medical technologist performing blood bank, hematology, urine/coagulation and microbiology at a small local hospital.

Job Tasks: A medical technologist is a vital part of a hospital's staff. I am the person behind the scenes. Every lab test that a doctor orders comes to the laboratory where a medical technologist puts it through a series of screenings. The results are often the key to a patients diagnosis and contain invaluable information. Many types of patient samples come into the lab. Blood samples can be tested for numerous things. In hematology, blood is tested both manually and with machines. Red blood cell counts, white blood cell counts, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are determined here. Slides are made with the patient's blood so techs can look at the cells under a microscope to see if they look normal or abnormal. Abnormal cells are often an indication of specific diseases like mono or different types of leukemia or cancer. Another part of the lab is called urinalysis and coagulation. Here we test urine for abnormalities and blood for coagulation problems. In microbiology samples are tested for bacteria. Throat swabs can be tested for strep throat. Urine is tested for bacteria which can aid in the detection of a urinary tract infection. Blood is tested for bacteria as well, a test that is crucial to determining if a very sick person is septic. The blood bank is a very exciting part of the lab. Here we test patients blood types and get blood ready for transfusion. People need blood for many different reasons, sometimes its because they have cancer and their blood counts are low. Other times a person has lost blood due to a major accident or during surgery. A blood banker can save a patients life by getting blood ready quick enough to be infused. All in all the lab is a huge piece of the diagnostic process. A doctor often needs lab results in order to determine what is wrong with a sick patient. Best and Worst Parts of the Job: The best part of my job is that I know the testing that I do will help a doctor treat a patient. It's a good feeling knowing that you are part of helping someone get better. The worst part is seeing test results that you know are critical and that sometimes a doctor can't fix. Job Tips: Medical technology is a great field to get into because there is always going to be a need for med techs. There are positions in hospitals, private labs and even some doctor's offices. My advice would be to stay a generalist which is to stay current in all fields of medical technology. Large hospitals allow you to work in just one department (like microbiology or blood bank) but most small hospitals want you to know it all and have that flexibility to move around the lab. Medical technologists have to pass a certification exam. But choose a school program too that offers an internship. An internship gives you the hands-on experience in the lab that you need to succeed. Additional Thoughts: To be successful in the job, you need to have great organizational skills, be good at multi-tasking and most importantly be able to put all the pieces together to help solve the diagnosis problem

Career Story: Medical Technologist At A Veteran's Hospital

Medical Technologist At A Veteran's Hospital Job Title: MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIST Education: M.T.(A.S.C.P) University of Maryland at Baltimore Previous Experience: My first laboratory job after college was as an evening shift stat laboratory technologist who drew blood on the floors and ER and ran the emergency tests. Job Tasks: At the veterans hospital, I work at several areas in the clinical laboratory that performs emergency testing for patients that come to the emergency room and for patients that have been hospitalized. There are also specimens that come from outside clinics for patients that do not live near this hospital. These areas that I work use the following: 1. hematology analyzers that run complete blood counts and coagulation studies and reading blood smears under a microscope to rule out infections, malignancies, anemias, sickle cells, etc.

2. chemistry analyzers that run heart, liver, kidney and pancreas function tests and therapeutic drug testing and drugs-of-abuse testing. 3. microbiology staining and testing for septicemia, Strep throats, HIV, meningitis, and other infections. 4. blood banking to test compatibility for patient transfusion of red blood cells, platelets and sometimes tissue products for the operating room. Most of my time is keeping the instrument going with patient samples or at the computer making sure that the test results are accurate for the physicians to use in their diagnoses and for guiding therapy for their patients. It is most important to give accurate and timely results and to call the doctor with any value that is critical for the patient. I spend spare time doing clerical entry of specialized tests performed at reference laboratories. These are tests that require sophisticated equipment and technical experts for more complex testing that is not offered in the hospital due to cost restraints. I had the opportunity to do training for new instrumentation at Miami, Florida and Anaheim, California a few years ago. This prepared me for troubleshooting analyzer problems or performing maintenance to keep the machines running smoothly and to help my co-workers when they have some instrument difficulties. Best and Worst Parts of the Job: The best part of being a medical technologist is finding a result that would help the doctor make a definitive diagnosis especially for rarely encountered diseases so that the patient can be cared in a timely and effective manner. The worst part of the job is the stress that occurs from too many samples to test, especially when the instruments are failing and the providers demand an answer before we can accurately give them one. Job Tips: This career requires a good grasp of biological concepts as applied to the human body, chemistry principles that are the basis of the clinical analyzers, mathematical manipulations for accurate analysis of measured tests and concentrations of bodily components such as cells and chemicals, enzymes, etc., and microbiology principles for normal and pathological infective agents. Simply put, listen to your teachers, read and learn as much as your young mind can absorb which is quite a bit, and do your best with the assignments, projects and homework that your teacher gives you. Additional Thoughts: This is a very rewarding field that requires a good emotional makeup, intellect and altruistic nature. It is a field that will experience a shortage in the near future, so we need young people to fill the upcoming need, especially as new and improved tests are developed

Career Story: Technologist In A Sleep Disorder Clinic

Technologist In A Sleep Disorder Clinic Job Title: Sleep Technologist Type of Company: I work in a clinic that specializes in the treatment of sleep disorders. Education: A.S., Liberal Arts & Sciences, Middlesex Community College Certificate, Sleep Technology, Northern Essex Community College Previous Experience: I actually had no work experience at all in health or the field of sleep medicine before deciding on sleep technology. The only experience I had came from schooling and some clinical work once a week. Job Tasks: I'm involved in clinical studies carried out in a lab overnight. I orient patients and explain our testing procedures; I also ready supplies and equipment for use, carry out head measurements, prepare and attach electrode sensors and much more, most of it too technical to list. Best and Worst Parts of the Job: The best part of my job is working with people and seeing their overall quality of life improve, along with their sleeping habits.

The worst part of the job is working a 12-hour over-night shifts. Job Tips: 1.) You MUST have vocational training for this job, whether it's through an AASM Astep program or one of the few community colleges that offer it. 2.) Get as much hands-on experience as possible. As with everything else, you learn the most by doing. 3.) However you do it, though, learn all you can! The field of sleep medicine is fast-paced, fast-growing, and very interesting! The more you know, the more valuable you'll be to your employer and patients. Additional Thoughts: I have been pleasantly surprised by how interesting my job has turned out to be. You might imagine that sleep would be boring, but it isn't. And while the work is sometimes tough, it is always (or mostly) rewarding, especially when you hear how much better someone feels after treatment. The only thing I might have done differently is getting certified. There are boards (known as BRPT exams) that you have to pass to be able to do this. You can work without taking them, but you make more money (as a "polysomnographic technologist") once you're certified. The most important thing you'll need if you want to succeed, though, is an eagerness to learn. It doesn't hurt either to be positive, friendly, and upbeat. You'll be working with people in a vulnerable state (i.e. asleep, and often wearing very little), and they are frequently nervous, uncertain just what to expect. To deal with them best, you need to be caring, compassionate and soothing. The more you know, the more information you can give them and the simpler it is to put them at ease. And it always feels good to help someone get healthier.

INTRODUCTION
Medical laboratory technology includes the practice of all skills incumbent in carrying out laboratory investigations relating to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease and has been defined by the Council of the Saskatchewan Society of Medical Laboratory Technologists (SSMLT) as follows: The practice of medical laboratory technology is the performance of laboratory investigations and the evaluation of the technical sufficiency of the investigations and their results. The definition includes practice in the areas of : laboratory administration; laboratory education; medical research; specimen collection, handling, and accessioning; and laboratory information systems. The ever-increasing complexity of medical science places a growing importance on the skills and resources of the medical laboratory technologist. Contemporary medical diagnosis requires sophisticated laboratory tests to accurately pinpoint and identify health problems. Accurate diagnosis enables the attending physician to prescribe appropriate treatment. Laboratory tests play an important role in monitoring the success of the treatment. Technologists are responsible for producing these accurate and reliable laboratory results which are so essential to the physician. Medical laboratory technologists (MLT's) are essential members of the healthcare team working with other health professionals to enhance their knowledge and ability to use the laboratory's growing capabilities.

SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Because of its diverse nature, the practice of medical laboratory technology cannot be defined in one neat and simple package. Medical laboratory technology is a family of technologies that have developed over many years. Most large medical laboratories are divided into five major departments. The following provides a brief description of some of the work performed in these departments (disciplines): Clinical Chemistry the analysis of chemical components in the blood, urine, and other body fluids including hormones and drugs. The technologist uses specialized equipment, incorporating photometric, electrochemical, and other methods of measurement to accurately detect even very small quantities of the analyte. Clinical Microbiology the identification of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites which invade the body. Identification of the infectious disease or condition makes use of special culture techniques, biochemical tests, and microscopic examinations. In addition, the technologist identifies the antibiotic that would be effective in treating the infection. Hematology: the study of the cellular components of the blood and its clotting mechanisms. Through cell counts and microscopic examinations of the red and white blood cells, specific disease conditions such as anemia and leukemia can be identified. For patients who have disorders that cause prolonged bleeding, or cause the blood to clot too quickly, the technologist performs coagulation studies that assist the physician in prescribing the correct therapy. Histotechnology: the preparation of body tissues for examination under the microscope by the pathologist to determine the cause of the disease, or to determine the cause of death in autopsies. Every tissue that is removed from the human body through biopsy, surgery, or autopsy is processed by technologists in the histotechnology department. For some biopsies and surgeries, the surgeon may need to know immediately if a lump or tumor is malignant or benign. Transfusion Science: the determination of blood types and the matching of blood for transfusion. The life of a person is at risk whenever there is a marked loss of blood due to surgery, accident, or illness. Life may be preserved and recovery aided if blood is replaced. Blood from some donors may be compatible and can be administered with relative safety, while blood from other donors may be incompatible and would cause death if transfused. Technologists match the patient with the donor's blood. NOTE: In addition, some large medical laboratories include specialized departments. The following provides a brief description of some of the work performed in these departments (disciplines): Diagnostic Cytology: the preparation of specimens and the microscopic examination of cells from those specimens for the detection of cancer and other abnormalities. Clinical Genetics: the preparation of specimens and the microscopic examination of the chromosomes in the cells from those specimens for the detection of chromosomal and molecular genetic abnormalities.

The scope of practice depends on the type of employing institution (whether a general or specialized laboratory) and on whether the technologist holds general certification or specialty certification. Scope is continuously changing as new techniques are developed and old techniques become obsolete or are superseded by newer tests and procedures. The skills required of all medical laboratory technologists, regardless of their scope of practice, are as follows: General Technological Skills : MLT's perform a wide variety of investigative and analytical procedures on specimens that originate from a variety of sources. These procedures require both technical and interpretive skills. Education in basic sciences and in human physiology enables technologists to validate test results, to understand the correlation of test results with clinical conditions, and to identify abnormal or implausible results. Knowledge of both the theoretical principles and the technical skills associated with a broad range of testing procedures ensures that technologists are able to adapt to new techniques in order to keep up with the rapidly changing field of medical laboratory science. Instrumentation Skills: The modern clinical laboratory utilizes a variety of instruments, ranging from simple to highly sophisticated. MLT's are trained to operate and calibrate laboratory instruments, to monitor instrument performance, and to carry out required adjustments and preventative maintenance procedures. Quality Control/Quality Assurance: Monitoring the quality of laboratory test results is an essential component in the role of MLT's. Technologists are required to establish, implement, and monitor routine quality control and quality assurance programs and to take appropriate corrective action when tests are "out of control". Technologists are also involved in method development and evaluation and instrument evaluation. Laboratory Safety: The clinical laboratory utilizes many hazardous reagents and handles infected materials from patients. MLT's have knowledge and expertise in the safe storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous reagents; in the safe transportation of dangerous goods; in the use of laboratory safety equipment; and in the techniques of safe handling and disposal of infected materials. The practice of these skills is essential to the maintenance of a safe working environment. Many technologists also participate in hospital infection control programs and on hospital occupational health and safety committees. Collaboration with Health Professionals: MLT's communicate effectively with other health professionals in the workplace to ensure that the correct specimens are collected at the proper times and to ensure that abnormal and unusual results are communicated appropriately. Professional Responsibility: MLT's fulfill all of the legal and ethical requirements of their practice and protect the patient's right to a reasonable standard of care.

OTHER CAREER PATHWAYS

There are a number of career pathways depending on individual career goals and willingness to pursue further studies. A number of universities offer degree programs in medical laboratory science or health science. MLT's who aspire to supervisory and management positions often

obtain the necessary skills through formal programs in management. Technologists seeking faculty positions in college programs find that a teaching certificate or education degree enhances their opportunities. Many technologists provide the skilled technical services required in medical research. Experienced technologists are also employed as technical consultants and trouble-shooters for commercial companies.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS
One of the exciting aspects of medical technology is its rapid and ongoing development. To meet the challenge of the future, the MLT never stops learning, never stops expanding his or her knowledge of the field and its possibilities.

EDUCATION AND CREDENTIALING

Education The MLT has a minimum of two years post-secondary education. In Saskatchewan, training is provided in general medical laboratory technology by SIAST, Kelsey Campus. The MLT Program is two years in length. It consists of 80 weeks of training with the time being divided between SIAST, Kelsey Campus and accredited hospitals in the Regina and Saskatoon Health Districts. A minor rotation may be required in a smaller centre. During the clinical training in the hospitals, students work alongside licensed MLT's, learning while performing the analytical work under close supervision. National certification examinations are conducted by the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) at the conclusion of the SIAST MLT Program. Saskatchewan also offers training in the specialty discipline of Diagnostic Cytology. The Diagnostic Cytology Program consists of 88 weeks of training with the time being divided between theroy at SIAST, Kelsey Campus (43 weeks) and clinical placement at an accredited hospital in the Regina (45 weeks). National certification examinations are conducted by the CSMLS at the conclusion of the Diagnostic Cytology Training Program. Saskatchewan does not offer training in Clinical Genetics. Training programs are offered in these disciplines in BC and Ontario. Saskatchewan does not offer a Baccalaureate program in Medical Laboratory Science; however, degree programs are available in several provinces. Graduates from these programs are eligible to write the national CSMLS certification examinations. Accreditation Accreditation of educational programs is carried out by the Conjoint Committee on Accreditation of Education Programs in Designated Health Science Professions. This Committee falls under the jurisdiction of the Canadian Medical Association. Each Education Program is re-evaluated every six years through application, submission of relevant documentation, and an on-site survey.

Certification Formal certification has been available through the CSMLS since 1937. The CSMLS conducts certification examinations and publishes competency profiles in general medical laboratory technology, diagnostic cytology, and clinical genetics. CSMLS certification is recognized across Canada. Certification at the advanced and fellowship levels is also available through the CSMLS for those MLT's who wish to enhance their career status through advancing their knowledge, skills, and professional qualifications. Licensing In Saskatchewan, MLT's must be licensed with the SSMLT in order to practice their profession. MLT's must fulfill the designated practice hour and continuing education requirements in order to maintain their license. The SSMLT sets and enforces standards of practice and investigates complaints about the competence and conduct of members to protect the public interest.

CONCLUSION
Medical laboratory technology has existed as a part of healthcare for almost 100 years. Since the early 1950's, progress made in clinical medicine directly influenced and expanded the content of the medical laboratory technology knowledge base and increased the test menu to hundreds of procedures. This dramatically increased the need for knowledge of these principles and appropriate technical skills. Concurrently increased were the overall professional responsibilities of medical laboratory technologists in the day-to-day operation in clinical laboratories. There has been a continual development of the academic level of the profession. Today, medical laboratory science is a well developed body of knowledge that includes portions of the basic and medical sciences, medical techniques, and research methods. This facilitates and ensures the production of quality medical diagnostic testing and allows medical laboratory technologists to practice independently as health professionals, taking complete responsibility for their own work. All practitioners realize the importance and need for continuing education to maintain their expertise