What does a Clinical Laboratory Technologist do?
Published 4 min read
A clinical laboratory technologist is a professional who performs tests on blood and other body fluids to help diagnose and treat medical conditions.
Clinical Laboratory Technologist job duties include:
- Performing and interpreting laboratory tests on blood, urine, and other body fluids
- Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment
- Collecting and preparing specimens for testing
- Analyzing test results and quality control data
- Recording and reporting test results
- Performing quality control procedures
- Calibrating and troubleshooting laboratory equipment
- Training new employees in laboratory procedures
- Maintaining accurate laboratory records
Clinical Laboratory Technologist Job Requirements
A Clinical Laboratory Technologist typically has an Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology, although a Bachelor's degree may be required for some positions. Certification from a national accrediting organization, such as the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, is also generally required. Clinical Laboratory Technologists typically have several years of experience working in a clinical laboratory.
Clinical Laboratory Technologist Skills
- Analytical skills
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Computer literacy
- Critical thinking
- Data analysis
- Interpersonal skills
- Laboratory procedures
- Organizational skills
- Problem solving
- Quality control
- Record keeping
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How to become a Clinical Laboratory Technologist
A Clinical Laboratory Technologist (CLT) is a professional who performs laboratory tests to detect, diagnose, and treat disease. A CLT typically works in a hospital or reference laboratory and may specialize in a particular area of testing, such as blood banking or microbiology.
To become a CLT, one must first earn a bachelor’s degree in medical technology or a related field. Many CLTs also earn a master’s degree or doctorate in medical science. After completing their educational requirements, CLTs must pass a national certification exam administered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Some states also require CLTs to be licensed.
Once they have met all educational and certification requirements, CLTs can begin their careers performing laboratory tests that help physicians diagnose and treat patients. CLTs use their knowledge of laboratory procedures and instruments to ensure that test results are accurate and reliable. They also play an important role in quality control, ensuring that the laboratory meets all regulatory standards.
CLTs must keep up with new developments in their field by reading scientific journals and attending conferences and seminars. They may also choose to specialize in a particular area of clinical laboratory science, such as blood banking or microbiology. With experience, CLTs can advance to supervisory or management positions within the laboratory. Some may also choose to teach at the college level or conduct research in a hospital or reference laboratory setting.
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