Medical laboratory technicians perform laboratory tests to aid in diagnosis and treatment of diseases. They work under the supervision of other health professionals such as medical pathologists, and other physicians. DOT 078.381-014
SPECIALTIES
078.362-014 Dialysis Technicians
WORK ACTIVITIES
Collect body fluids and specimens from patients as ordered by doctors.
Prepare fluids and specimens for testing.
Use equipment and chemicals to perform tests.
Record results of tests.
APTITUDES
Be able to learn medical lab techniques and terminology.
Have good numerical ability and verbal ability for speaking and writing.
Be able to make decisions based on set standards, stay within exact time limits, handle a variety of activities, and do paperwork accurately.
Have ability to see space and rorm relationships and differences in shades of color and have good eye-hand coordination.
Be able to work under pressure.
Ability to learn computerized activities.
WORK SETTING
Environment: Work indoors in laboratories and offices.
Hours: Work 40 hours a week; weekend, evening, and holiday hours are possible.
Employers: Hospitals, clinics, doctors; offices, veterinary clinics, research centers, colleges and universities, medical schools, government agencies, and industrial medical laboratories.
EMPLOYMENT AND WAGES
In 1996, it was estimated that 917 medical and clinical laboratory technicians were employed in Nebraska. Growth and/or turnover create approximately 31 job openings each year.
It is estimated that 328,000 clinical laboratory technologists and technicians will be employed in the United States by 2006, with approximately 70,000 job openings between 1996 and 2006.
Projected Change to 2006
Nebraska 23%
National 15%
Nebraska Annual Wage Range
$10,400 to $41,600
Annual Median Wage
Nebraska $23,000
National $24,500
SKILLS
Knowledge of the basics of medical laboratory methods and use of lab testing equipment.
Skills in communication for speaking and writing.
Skills in record keeping and report writing.
Skills in dealing with a variety of people.
LICENSING OR CERTIFICATION
Licensing is not required, but certification is available from the American Society of Clinical Pathologists or the American Medical Technologists. To be
certified, a person must have completed a two-year training program and pass an exam.
TRAINING
The minimum educational requirement is an associate degree from an approved program.
Clinical experience in an approved lab is also required.
Job chances may be better for graduates approved by the American Medical Associations Committee on Allied Health, Education, and Accreditation.
Training may be obtained through an apprenticeship program.
HELPFUL HIGH SCHOOL SUBJECTS
High school subjects that may help prepare individuals for this occupation include biology, chemistry, physiology, psychology, algebra I, geometry, speech, composition, health, and computer applications.
