Career Summary

Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians play a critical role in the medical field. They combine an expert knowledge of chemistry and technical experience along with a vast knowledge of diseases to find potential diseases. They usually work in medical laboratories and assist medical firms, doctors, and hospitals with testing for specific diseases. Additionally they are often used by businesses to do drug testing.

In a typical day, a clinical laboratory technologist will examine and analyze body fluids and cells. They look for bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms; analyze the chemical content of fluids; match blood for transfusions; and test for drug levels in the blood. They also prepare specimens for examination, count cells, and look for abnormal cells in blood and body fluids.

After each test, clinical laboratory technologists will analyze the results and relay them to physicians and other staff members. Because their findings are often used in patient assessments, criminal investigations, and drug testing, accuracy and a high ethical standard is crucial. The increase of test automation and the use of computer technology mean that the work of technologists has become less hands-on and more of a thought process using investigative skills.