A medical and clinical laboratory technician is someone who conducts lab tests ordered by doctors and other healthcare providers. Working with laboratory machines, microscopes, and computers, they examine human tissue samples and bodily fluids in order to identify abnormalities and to determine diagnoses. A laboratory technician’s work is vital to a patient’s healthcare.
Medical and clinical laboratory technicians are the people who perform routine medical laboratory tests, giving physicians the information needed to diagnose, treat, and prevent disease. By examining and analyzing body fluids and cells, they can determine the chemical content of fluids, look for parasites, bacteria, and other microorganisms, look for abnormal cells in blood and body fluids, match blood for transfusions, and test for drug levels in blood.
Medical and clinical laboratory technicians use microscopes, cell counters, and other sophisticated lab equipment. They also use computerized instruments and automated equipment that can perform a number of tests simultaneously. After testing and examining a specimen, they analyze the results and relay those results to the physician.
Some of the duties performed by a medical and clinical laboratory technician:
Medical and clinical laboratory technicians work in hospitals, medical or diagnostic laboratories, physician’s and dentist’s offices, and in state agencies. Working hours may vary according to the type of employment setting. In hospitals or laboratories that operate as a 24-hour facility, technicians usually work the day, evening, or night shift and may work weekends and holidays. Technicians in small facilities may work on rotating shifts, rather than on a regular shift, and may be on call in case of an emergency.
When proper methods of sterilization are followed, few hazards exist. However, protective masks, gloves, and goggles are often necessary to ensure safety. The workplace is usually well-lit and clean; however, specimens and solutions used in the laboratory sometimes produce fumes.
How much money does a Lab Technician make in Kenya? A person working as a Lab Technician in Kenya typically earns around KSH91,100 per month. Salaries range from KSH41,900 (lowest) to KSH145,000 (highest).
An increase in the aging population is expected to lead to a greater need to diagnose medical conditions, such as cancer or type 2 diabetes, through laboratory procedures. Prenatal testing for various types of genetic conditions also is increasingly common. Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians will be in demand to use and maintain the equipment needed for diagnosis and treatment.
