Roles Of A Pathology Lab Technician

By Author: Deepak Hegde
Total Articles: 16
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A pathology laboratory is a place that uses the aid of disciplines like chemistry, haematology and microbiology to diagnose various bodily fluids like blood, urine and even tissues sometimes. To ensure the proper functioning and overlooking the procedures, a pathology lab technician is necessary. He/she must have the required educational training to initiate a career in it. Some of the prerequisites of a pathology lab technician are-

1.An associate degree

2.Must have a degree in laboratory science

3.License recognised by the state

4.Preferably some years of experience.

Apart from these, there are certain fixed functions or roles that a pathology lab technician must perform or at least strive to. They are-

1.Store and examine the specimen

The primary role of any pathology lab technician is to prepare assiduously, store and examine the collected specimens. Though their place of work may vary, ranging from a pathological laboratory to a diagnostic clinic , their work remains largely similar.

2.Operate laboratory equipment

Pathology lab technicians must have the capacity and the capability to operate laboratory equipment. They must also be equipped enough to conduct lab test without the aid of elaborate devices and by merely following certain directions.

3.Preparing samples

It is the task of a laboratory technician to prepare samples on which further tests are performed. The result and the diagnosis are completely reliant on the proper and careful preparation of the samples;therefore this must be prepared with utmost care and efficiency.

4. Specialising in a particular form of test

Sometimes, the technicians are required to specialise in aparticular form of tests. For instance, there may be few technicians who would concern themselves only with blood samples while others may look into the examination of tissues. Such distribution of work ensures increased productivityas well as facilitates specialisation.

5.Better communication

All laboratory technicians, irrespective of their field of specialisation must not only be able enough to prepare the samples and trigger the diagnosis but must also have the ability to communicate the results properly with their supervisors. The accuracy of the result depends on both the fronts, and not just the former as it is believed to be.