Medical laboratory technicians conduct tests to help detect, diagnose, and treat diseases.
In the 1930s, Dr. George Papanicolaou developed a laboratory test we now refer to as, the Pap smear. Performed through a simple procedure, the Pap smear is the most widely used laboratory test to detect cervical cancer and other related conditions. In fact, it is also the most accurate test, reducing deaths due to cervical cancer by over 75%. By analyzing cells taken from a woman's cervix, medical laboratory technicians can find cancer in its earliest stages, even if the woman has no symptoms. In many cases, technicians can find conditions that might turn into cancer. Because of this simple test, cancer can be prevented before it even gets started.
Physicians use laboratory tests to help them figure out what is wrong with patients. Lab technicians run tests using samples of body fluids, cells, or tissues. Sometimes they use samples to prepare slides. The slides are then examined under a microscope. Sometimes technicians run tests to chemically analyze samples. They look to see if the samples are abnormal or diseased. They try to find and identify organisms, such as bacteria, that would indicate an infection. They often prepare vaccines and serums and test them to make sure they are active and not sterile. For other tests, technicians grow cell cultures. They make sure cells are grown in the right medium and temperature. After tests are run, technicians record, evaluate, and send results back to physicians or medical researchers. They also talk to pathologists if abnormal cells are found.
Medical technicians do most routine laboratory testing. Technicians may prepare specimens and use machines that automatically analyze samples. They may follow detailed instructions to do tests by hand. They record the test results on computers. Some technicians run all types of tests while others specialize. Phlebotomists draw and test blood. Histology technicians cut and stain tissue samples. In addition to running tests, technicians set up, clean, and maintain laboratory equipment, such as centrifuges and microscopes. They also prepare standard solutions for use in the lab. This involves measuring and mixing the correct amount of various chemicals.