What does a Clinical Laboratory Technician do?
Published 3 min read
A clinical laboratory technician is a professional who works in a medical laboratory and performs tests on patients' samples to diagnose and treat diseases.
Clinical Laboratory Technician job duties include:
- Collects blood and tissue samples from patients
- Labels and processes the samples
- Runs tests on the samples using various laboratory equipment
- Records and reports test results
- Maintains laboratory equipment and supplies
- Performs quality control checks on laboratory procedures
- May assist in research studies
- May train new laboratory technicians
- May work in multiple areas of the lab, such as hematology, immunology, or chemistry
Clinical Laboratory Technician Job Requirements
A Clinical Laboratory Technician typically has an Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology, although some have a Bachelor's degree. Certification is generally required and can be obtained through professional organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology. Experience is not always required, but it is helpful.
Clinical Laboratory Technician Skills
- Phlebotomy
- Aseptic technique
- Instrumentation
- Quality control
- Precision
- Accuracy
- Attention to detail
- Organization
- Time management
- Problem solving
- Interpersonal skills
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How to become a Clinical Laboratory Technician
A Clinical Laboratory Technician (CLT) is a professional who performs various laboratory tests to analyze body fluids, tissues, and other substances. CLTs work in hospitals, clinics, and independent laboratories. They typically work under the supervision of a medical technologist or physician.
To become a CLT, one must first earn a high school diploma or equivalent. After that, they must complete an accredited CLT program, which typically takes two years. Some states require CLTs to be licensed or certified. To earn certification, CLTs must pass an exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).
Those interested in becoming a CLT should have strong math and science skills and be detail-oriented. They should also be able to work well under pressure and have good communication skills.
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