Medical Laboratory Scientist FAQ | Role, Job Responsibilities, Patient Care & Misconceptions
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- Опубликовано: 4 июл 2024
- Happy Lab Week!
A medical laboratory professional analyzes a variety of biological specimens in order to help patients. We work closely with physicians & other healthcare professionals to provide data for diagnosing diseases and monitoring treatment.
0:00 ~ frequently asked questions
0:25 ~ what is a medical laboratory scientist?
0:43 ~ what does a medical laboratory scientist do?
1:10 ~ do you work directly with patients in the clinical setting?
2:40 ~ what is required to work as a medical laboratory scientist?
3:40 ~ where does a medical laboratory scientist work?
3:58 ~ How stressful is the laboratory?
4:44 ~ Misconceptions (Job Titles & "Button-pushers")
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Let's celebrate lab professionals for all the hard work that is done behind the scenes. I hope my channel provides a space for students and new professionals to find motivating (& relatable) content. I welcome everyone to post words of positivity, cool stories as well as inspiration for the laboratory field in the comment section below.
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Comment below & share your medical laboratory journey. Let's build a community!
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xoxo, dominique larae
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Happy Lab Week! 👩🏾🔬🔬🧪
I started taking pre-reqs for nursing but eventually switched majors to MLS once I found out about the profession. These videos are super helpful for someone like me about to start a program! Thank you!! ❤
Good luck on your journey to the lab! 😄
Me too! Just switched 🥹 Hope I get into the MLS program ❤
Same here! I just have to take chemistry 1 and lab!
Thank you for this! Anytime someone asks what I do I'm sending them this! So well spoken.
Thank you!!
I'm currently a high school senior who's thinking of majoring in MLS for college, so this was very helpful for me, thank you! Just subscribed as well 🥰
That’s awesome! Glad my content is helpful for you! Thanks for subscribing 😄
hi!! new sub, i’m currently taking my pre-reqs to get into my MLT program (i am planning to become an MLS down the road) which i’m very excited about and i just wanted to thank you for all the information you have provided with your channel!!
I wish you the best on your journey to the lab! Thanks for sharing & I appreciate your support for my content 😄
Don't get me started on nurses, especially registered nurses (RNs), but shockingly, sometimes even nurse practitioners. Some of the worst parts of my day as a clinical laboratory technologist involve having to interact with a RN. It is routine for me to have to explain things to nurses, because they tend to know very little.
Things that I'm shocked a RN doesn't know, like what hemolysis is, and why I can't use such a specimen. Registered nurses don't understand the finer details. Some RNs are smart and seem to understand as much as I think a nurse should. Eight times out of 10 though, I walk away feeling like I just lost a few hundred thousand brain cells. I don't have as much of a problem with nurse practitioners, but that's likely due to the fact I don't interact with as many NPs as I do with RNs. Still, even with them, it's 50/50. Heck, even physicians sometimes get it wrong, and I have to remind them of something they may have overlooked. I've even gotten the odd call to the lab, just asking what test to ask indicate, especially for highly specialized tests or uncommon tests. Though on the whole, physicians, and physicians assistants are way more knowledgeable than any nurse I've ever work with, no matter whether registered nurse or practitioner.
I definitely get it! I always find it funny that our labels print with instructions on proper collection for patient care when they are at the bedside, but I assume they ignore it and now I have to stop what I’m doing to reject something 😂 It seems like I spend a little less time on the phone though - my lab has a customer service dept, so they answer the bulk of questions especially outpatient. Now, I am usually just interacting with physicians to follow up with results or just answering common questions
I'M SO PROUD OF YOU, I FEEL LIKE A HIDDEN FIGURE, I STARTED IN THE LABORATORY BACK IN 1977, IT WAS A FEDERAL PROGRAM, FOR LAB ASSISTANT, VERY LITTLE AUTOMATION, A LOT OF MANUAL WORK, THAN WENT BACK TO SCHOOL FOR MY MLT, 2 YEAR DEGREE, THAN THE GOVERNMENT HAD AN WHAT THEY CALLED A UPPER MOBILITY PROGRAM, WHERE YOU HAD TO TAKE 35 HRS OF BIO SCIENCES, ALSO WITH YOUR EXPERIENCE, THAT WOULD QUALIFY YOU FOR A MEDICAL TECHNOLOGISTS, SO THEY GRANDFATHER CAUSED US IN , IT WASN'T EASY GOING TO CLASS AFTER WORK BUT IT WAS WORTH, IT I DID 37YRS IN THE LABORATORY, WORKING IN CHEMISTRY, HEMATOLOGY , URINALYSIS , ASSISTED IN BONE MARROW PROCEDURES, AND DRAW BLOOD, WORK ON ANALYZERS, DID MICROSCOPIC , IN HEMO , IDENTIFYING CELLS, WORKED ON ALL FLUIDS, MET PEOPLE FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD, VERY FEW BLACKS ARE IN THIS FIELD, I WISH MORE WOULD, BUT IT'S VERY STRESSFUL, YOU WORK VERY HARD, BUT REWARDING, PROUD OF MYSELF, RETIRED NOW GOD BLESS, YOU. KEEP IT GOING GREAT JOB.
Thanks ❤
I am studying hard on my own to go to college for an associates degree in MLT. At first, I looked at surg tech and nursing, and honestly, both just didn't feel right for what I really love- and that's helping others with my passion for science. I'm anxious about this commitment, but with every step, it just feels like the right fit. Thank you so much for your videos ❤
Thanks for sharing! Good luck on your journey to the lab!
hey how are you ? I would like to know more how a MLS can work in a forensic science ? thanks
This was great thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Happy lab week
Thank you!! 🧬🔬👩🏾🔬
I’m in college now to get my associates for MLT!! Thanks so much for this video! I have a question. Will it be much harder getting a job with just an associates? Or does it not really matter? I do plan on transferring later on to get my MLS but I was just wondering.
Good luck on your journey to the lab! It shouldn’t matter once you get certified. Some jobs may even help you pay for tuition when you go back to school 😊
@@domilarae tysm!
Do you HAVE to go through with the MLS program or can you apply with just a 4 year degree in a science subject? Did you also get training when you first started as a MLS?
You don't have to go through a program if its not required where you live. I chose to go back to school in order to get certified, because it is required where i live. I did receive formal training as well as training on the job as a new grad.
Inshalla
Currently in my MLT program! I know math is always involved, but I was wondering how much of it was automated these days vs working out the math problem and using a calculator to find it
That’s a good question! It will normally depend on the lab and the equipment they use. I may have to do algebra/statistics-like math on a daily basis, but it doesn’t usually require a calculator.
Hiiii❤ new sub by here 😊 i love your content. I have a few questions about diferences between MLS and MLT... certifications and years of study... i really want to be part of that laboratory world👩🔬 keep going with videos like this🤗
Sure! In my country, the difference is that MLS have a bachelors degree and MLT have an associates. Some countries MLT is the same as MLS. It just depends on where you live
Anxiously awaiting your next video
If you have any video ideas or questions, feel free to share. Im working on making new content!
Hi Dominique, I'm applying to study next year, and right now I'm just preparing a little by reading relevant books. Right now I'm reading a biochemistry book and wondering in your job, do you yourself calculate µmol/L, mmol/L, p/mol/L , etc....or does a machine do it? Thanks in advance.
That’s a great question! It will depend on the type of lab and the testing performed. The analyzers I have worked with have all measured samples in microliters (uL) or milliliters (mL) - even my manual bench top testing is in uL and mL. I don’t have to do conversions, but I may do dilutions or titers as needed. Hopefully that answers your question.
@@domilarae Thank you. What I understood from your answer is that the results typically come from a machine (depending on the type of lab/testing), and then you don't usually do a conversion to other units of measurement. Is that correct? For example, if I go for a blood test as a patient, you as a medical laboratory scientist will take that blood, maybe mix it with reagents, put it into a machine, and receive results, which you then input the data into a journal, usually without having to manually calculate anything or do conversions? Thanks again!
Right! You may come across the concept of conversions in a general chemistry course. But in the real world setting, I assume conversions may be more likely in an academic research lab. They may need to do something that requires figuring out a proper measurement of a chemical for an experiment.
@@domilarae Thank you!
I’m a phlebotomist, there are some MLT at my hospital that help out with blood draws. I am thinking about starting a MLT program. I wouldn’t mind working with patients every now and then. Thanks for the video
That’s awesome that you’re already comfortable with specimen collection. I have heard of smaller labs that do require MLT/MLS to draw blood. It just depends on the facility.
Hi! I’m applying to MLS programs this year with a BS in biology. I’m just wondering if this field will be too difficult if I’m not always the best with technology. I do have a lot of lab experience and I know I will learn a lot next year in programs. But oftentimes I struggle with technology and computer programs. I’m much better with other lab techniques
Great question! You will be learning the charting system, middleware and analyzer softwares once you get a job. The good news is that laboratory softwares are pretty user friendly! Most places also have job aides to walk you through certain steps. You can also jot down notes in training so that you can reference how to do things once you’re working on your own. I wouldn’t worry too much about the technology 😊
@@domilarae thank you! that sounds doable
Hi, my daughter so far has chosen the career to become a MLT/MLS. What are some things she can start learning slowly but surely to prepare herself for that field? I don’t know where to start. I’m a CPC Medical coder so familiar with the medical field/areas but lost when it comes to where to start… maybe certain books, varies lab tests… idk
There’s some websites like ASCP, American Red Cross, and CDC that she can visit to explore various lab testing. There’s also some podcasts that discuss different areas of the lab as well - like microbiology and blood bank related. There’s an intro mls book on Amazon that may help with learning concepts, it’s by Mary Turgeon.
Thanks so much for the response! I will check those out! Your page is the clearest I watched on RUclips so far about being/becoming a MLT/MLS. We definitely have to watch more videos on your page. I don’t want to be a blind parent making uneducated guesses on her career choice. Want to at grasp the bare minimum to help her on the career journey! Thank you!
Hi Dominique 👋🏾 New Sub 🎉 I have a quick a quick question… Do you see any MLTs (Associates Degree) working in the Lab?? I’m going to school to take my pre-req classes first before entering the classes because I have seizures but not full blown epilepsy… the college I’m attending wants a physical done before n I want to hide it but I’m not sure what they’ll say… I don’t even have them often I learned what triggers my seizures but do you think it’s possible to still work as an MLT with a disability such as mines???
Hi Katrina! Yes I work alongside MLTs! ☺️ Maybe consider disclosing the info and your triggers for safety reasons. If anything, the college can provide accomodations just in case. You can still work in the field as well. ADA protects your rights so employers cannot discriminate. Of course, it'd be your choice to disclose or not to jobs, just like with the college
@@domilarae Thank you sooo much this gives me sooo much hope🥲🌹 I can’t wait to start this fall… I live in NC and see their is a lot of openings for MLTs… I’m so hoping I get employed after graduating 🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🧪🥼🧬🧫😄😄😄
I would like enter to MLS but I already started with fundamental class in nursing.What do you think, I am not good in technology.
I think you should take more time to research the medical lab science field and nursing field to see which one is right for you. The jobs have entirely different responsibilities in healthcare
I just got accepted into the MLT associates program and I am kind of nervous about entering the field because of the NEGATIVE talk about the lab in the hospital. Its either Nurses clashing with MLTs and so on and I dont have time for the pettiness with them. I am also seeing and hearing about the low pay. Any advice?? I just dont have 2 years to waste on something thats is not even worth the energy
Congrats on your acceptance 🤗 I don’t deal with any of the negatives you mentioned, which it just depends on the workplace culture. I have experienced staffing to be an issue, but that might be throughout healthcare at this point lol. Maybe reach out to your program director and speak with them, they may have more insight into the workplaces near you and the experience/opinions of recent grads who now work in the field. I would say take some more time to look into the job duties of an MLT and explore if it’s something you can actually see yourself doing - and if the pay in your area is worth it to you - before you continue on into the associates program.
Hello Dominique!
I thoroughly enjoy watching your videos as they provide valuable insights.
I am currently enrolled in an Associate degree program for Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT). I'm in my final semester of classes and will commence my internships in January 2024. I must admit, I'm feeling quite apprehensive about this upcoming phase.
I've been pondering if you could provide some clarity regarding the roles and responsibilities of lab technicians in comparison to Medical Lab Scientists (MLS). I understand that lab technicians do not carry the same level of responsibility as those with a Bachelor's degree in Medical Lab Science and may not possess an equivalent depth of knowledge and training.
One of the reasons for my anxiety about the upcoming internships is my uncertainty about the specific expectations concerning my skills and knowledge. Any guidance or information you can offer on this topic would be greatly appreciated. ☺
New subscriber by the way! 😊
Hello Steven! As far as internships, your program or clinical site may give you an orientation soon to go over the details and expectations. It would be best for you to see if your state defines a scope of practice for MLTs so you have an idea of the skills you will learn while interning.
The responsibilities of MLTs can vary depending on where you live. As far as entry level bench work, MLTs and MLSs essentially do the same job in most parts of the USA. Limited scope for entry level bench work only applies in certain states. And, when it comes to roles beyond the bench, like leadership, generally a bachelors degree and beyond will be required.
Hopefully this information is helpful. Thank you for supporting my channel!
@@domilarae I appreciate your suggestion to consult the program or clinical site for orientation information and to gain a clear understanding of the scope of practice applicable in my state. Being well-prepared and informed is crucial as I embark on my internship.
I also find it intriguing to learn that MLTs and MLSs share similar responsibilities, with the restriction in scope being state-specific. This insight expands my understanding of the field's adaptability and the various avenues it offers.
Thank you again for sharing your knowledge, and I'm glad to support your channel. Your expertise is greatly appreciated!
Best regards,
Steven
Please when you go for an interview and they ask why do you want to become a medical laboratory scientist what will be your response?
This is a great video idea!
Does the pay differ significantly between a MLT and MLS?
I think it’s around $10/hr difference depending on the area.
@@domilarae I see. Thank u for replying! 🩷
I want to know the difference between the duties PHD IN MLS and degree in MLS
Bachelors in MLS conducts patient testing. A PhD or doctoral level MLS may work in management - like lab director, college program director, or even consulting services.
Hello I'm an MLS degree student. Can i do a doctorate degree in MLS after graduating?? If yes, how??
Yes! Most schools require work experience first.
Can mlt graduates become medical laboratory scientist or research associate?
Yes, its definitely possible. Both would mean going back to school to obtain a bachelor's degree in MLS or a life science.
@@domilarae okay and ❤️ Thankyou sm for responding. ❤️
How long does it take?
4 years of school for medical lab scientist (medical technologist), 2 years of school for medical lab technician
Hello Good morning 🌄
I am graduated as medical laboratory technologist from Pakistan and cleard ASCPi MLS in 2023. How can i get job as medical laboratory technologist/scientist in the united state of America
It would be best to speak to someone that took the ASCPi and found a job here. It’s different qualifications than the route I pursued, so I don’t have much advice.
I see ur volgs about ascp I am from Pakistan I have degree masc mlt lab thechnologist I want to know about I can apply Canada aur UK aur any other country if is it good for me then I apply for ascp plz help me about opportunity
I’m not familiar with Canada’s requirements
What happens to all the used petri dishes and glass bottles? Do they get sent out for professional cleaning, or do they get thrown out as a biohazard?
Great question! Most of everything is designed to be single-use, so it’s all thrown out as biohazard and it gets incinerated. Although, I have spent time in a lab with professionally cleaned lab coats.
@@domilarae thank you for the info
I have some doubts. Where can I text you. Please reply
You can message me on instagram @domilarae
Some nurses are dumb!! How can you not think you don't need a degree to do the lab? 😭🤦♀️
😂😂😂😂 I think for some of them, they mainly interact with phlebotomists and don’t normally go to the lab
Do Clinical Laboratory Scientists analyze vomit?
Yes, I have done testing for it 😂
@@domilarae EW! How often does it happen?
It's not too common, so I would say rarely