Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)

Impact: Indirect Patient Care

Medical laboratory technicians perform medical laboratory tests for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. They organize work by matching computer orders with specimen labeling, sort specimens, and check specimens’ delivery. MLTs maintain quality results by running standards and controls, verifying equipment function through routine equipment maintenance, and serve as a technical resource by participating in staff training. They identify and communicate abnormal patient conditions by alerting supervisory personnel, and provide test results for patient diagnosis and treatment by operating chemistry equipment. MLTs ensure the patient receives compatible blood by completing blood typing, antibody screening, and compatibility testing. They also contribute to a safe and secure environment for patients, visitors, physicians, and co-workers, and maintain patient confidence by keeping laboratory information confidential. The role involves computer entry of laboratory orders and performance of tests in areas like chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and serology, requiring excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and knowledge of CLIA waived, moderate, and high-complexity laboratory procedures.