Medical Laboratory Technologists


Health Science > Medical Laboratory Technologists > Working Conditions
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Medical Laboratory Technologists

Medical Laboratory Technologists - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, medical laboratory technologists:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a medium level of social interaction. They spend time talking to doctors and other lab workers, but spend time alone running tests.
  • Communicate by telephone, in person, and e-mail on a daily basis. They also use letters and memos, but less often.
  • Are on occasion placed in conflict situations. Medical personnel may disagree on the interpretation of test results.
  • Are somewhat responsible for the health and safety of others.
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  • Are responsible for the results of other workers.
  • Regularly work as part of a team.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Always work indoors.
  • Are exposed to diseases, infections, and contaminants daily. They wear safety gear, such as latex gloves and surgical masks, to protect themselves.
  • Are exposed to contaminants and hazardous conditions on a weekly basis.
  • May on occasion be exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable. Medical equipment can be loud.
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  • Work near others. They often share the same work space with other technologists.

Work Performance

  • Must be very exact and accurate when running tests and equipment. Errors in testing can seriously endanger patients' health.
  • Make decisions that affect patients on a daily basis. They rarely consult a supervisor before deciding a course of action.
  • Make decisions that strongly impact their employer's reputation.
  • Set most of their daily tasks and goals without talking to a supervisor first.
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  • Abide by strict deadlines. Test results cannot be delayed.
  • Must sometimes let the pace of work be dictated by the speed of the equipment.
  • Often repeat the same physical and mental activities.

Hours/Travel

  • Generally work a set schedule
  • Most work full time, about 40 hours per week.
  • May work nights, weekends, or holidays. Hospitals need tests run at all hours of the day.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.