Medical Laboratory Technician

ABOUT COURSE

provides the training to perform routine clinical laboratory tests and procedures, crucial for diagnosing and treating diseases. The course typically includes classroom learning, lab work, and practical experience in healthcare settings, preparing students for entry-level positions in various laboratories. 

Course Content:

Core Sciences:

Biology, chemistry, math, and statistics form the foundation. 

Laboratory Techniques:

Students learn to handle and maintain laboratory equipment, perform tests, and interpret results. 

Specialized Areas:

Training covers hematology, clinical chemistry, immunohematology, microbiology, serology/immunology, coagulation, and molecular diagnostics. 

Quality Control and Information Systems:

Students develop skills in quality control procedures and using laboratory information systems. 

Communication and Professionalism:

Effective communication with team members, patients, and other healthcare professionals is emphasized. 

Supervised Clinical Experience:

Practical experience in hospitals or other healthcare facilities is often included to apply learned skills. 

Course Duration and Structure:

• Associate's Degree: Often takes two years to complete. 

• Diploma Programs: Can be completed in three years and may include a hands-on component. 

Career Opportunities:

• Hospital Laboratories: Performing tests for diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
• Commercial or Reference Laboratories: Providing testing services to other healthcare facilities.
• Public Health Laboratories: Monitoring disease outbreaks and public health concerns.
• Utility Laboratories: Testing water and other materials for safety and quality. 

Entry Requirements:

O' Level Credits:

Typically require credit passes in English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.

Specific Exam Boards:

SSCE (WAEC or NECO), GCE, or other equivalent qualifications are often accepted. 

Additional Information:

Professional Licensure/Certification:

Some states or employers may require professional licensure or certification. 

Career Demand:

The field is experiencing a shortage of qualified professionals, leading to good job prospects. 

Advancement:

MLTs can advance to roles like medical laboratory technologists or pursue further education in related fields. 

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Learning Objectives

specimen collection, processing, and analysis, performing a wide range of laboratory tests, understanding quality control and assurance, and applying safety and regulatory compliance principles. They should also be able to interpret results, troubleshoot issues, and communicate effectively with healthcare professionals and patients. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Technical Skills & Knowledge:

Specimen Handling:

Proficiency in collecting, processing, and preparing biological specimens (blood, urine, tissue, etc.) for analysis. 

Test Performance:

Ability to perform a wide range of laboratory tests, including hematology, clinical chemistry, microbiology, immunohematology, and more. 

Instrumentation:

Competent operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments. 

Quality Control:

Understanding and application of quality control and quality assurance procedures to ensure accurate results. 

Problem-Solving:

Ability to troubleshoot technical issues during laboratory procedures and identify potential sources of error. 

Scientific Foundation:

Strong understanding of the scientific principles underlying laboratory testing, including anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology. 

Regulatory Compliance:

Knowledge of safety regulations, infection control, and laboratory-related regulations.