Medical Laboratory Assistant Job Descriptions |
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| Medical laboratory assistants (MLAs), sometimes
known as clinical support workers, help scientists and medical
staff to diagnose and treat patients. They work throughout
the health service on wards, and in clinics and laboratories.
As an MLA, your duties could include: · labelling, sorting and storing specimens · assisting with the analysis of tissue and fluid samples · loading and operating machines · using a computer to input and analyse data · disposing of hazardous waste · sterilising equipment
· Maintaining stock levels. Part of your work may also include responding to telephone enquiries and keeping and filing records. You could work closely with scientists in a range of areas including: · biochemistry, studying chemical reactions in the body like kidney failure · histopathology, examining the structure of diseased tissue · virology, analysing viruses, the diseases they cause, and vaccines · cytology, studying the structure and function of cells, and screening for cancers · haematology, analysing diseases of the blood and blood forming tissues · immunology, examining how the immune system works, for example, with allergies · Transfusion science, transferring blood and blood products from one person to another. Key Skills · an interest in science, particularly biology and chemistry · accuracy and attention to detail · the ability to concentrate for long periods · good hand-eye coordination · a methodical approach to work · good team working skills · good organisational skills · the ability to work under pressure · good time keeping, with the ability to meet deadlines · The ability to follow strict Health and Safety guidelines. |
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