Top 10 Questions for Medical Laboratory Technologist (Medical Lab Tech) Interview

1. Can you describe the process of performing a complete blood count (CBC)?

A CBC is a common blood test that measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in a sample of blood. It can also be used to measure hemoglobin levels and hematocrit.

• Collect a blood sample from the patient.
• Prepare the blood sample by diluting it with a buffer.
• Load the prepared blood sample into the analyzer.
• The analyzer will count the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the sample.
• The analyzer will also measure the hemoglobin levels and hematocrit.
• The results of the CBC will be printed out.

2. What is the difference between a Gram stain and an acid-fast stain?

Gram stain

• Differentiates between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
• Uses crystal violet, Gram’s iodine, alcohol, and safranin.
• Gram-positive bacteria will stain purple, and Gram-negative bacteria will stain red.

Acid-fast stain

• Differentiates between acid-fast and non-acid-fast bacteria.
• Uses carbolfuchsin, acid-alcohol, and methylene blue.
• Acid-fast bacteria will stain red, and non-acid-fast bacteria will stain blue.

3. What are the different types of microscopy used in a medical laboratory?

• Brightfield microscopy
• Darkfield microscopy
• Phase-contrast microscopy
• Fluorescence microscopy
• Electron microscopy

4. What are the safety precautions that must be followed when working in a medical laboratory?

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, lab coat, and safety glasses.
• Handle all specimens as if they are potentially infectious.
• Follow all standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the safe handling of specimens and equipment.
• Dispose of all waste materials properly.
• Report any accidents or spills immediately.

5. What are the different types of laboratory tests that can be used to diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

• Urinalysis
• Urine culture
• Cystoscopy

6. What are the different types of blood tests that can be used to diagnose diabetes?

• Fasting blood glucose test
• Oral glucose tolerance test
• Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) test

7. What are the different types of electrocardiograms (ECGs) that can be performed?

• 12-lead ECG
• Holter monitor
• Stress test
• Event recorder

8. How do you calibrate a pipet?

• Dispense a known volume of water into a tared weigh paper.
• Weigh the water and record the weight.
• Calculate the volume of water dispensed by dividing the weight of the water by the density of water.
• Adjust the pipet until the volume of water dispensed is equal to the desired volume.

9. How do you troubleshoot a centrifuge?

• Check the power cord and make sure it is plugged in.
• Check the fuse and make sure it is not blown.
• Check the lid and make sure it is closed properly.
• Check the rotor and make sure it is securely in place.
• Check the speed and time settings and make sure they are correct.
• If the centrifuge is still not working, call a qualified technician.

10. What is the difference between a precision and an accuracy?

• Precision refers to the closeness of a set of measurements to each other.
• Accuracy refers to the closeness of a measurement to the true value.

Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) play a crucial role in the healthcare system by performing a wide range of laboratory tests and procedures.

1. Sample Collection and Processing

MLTs collect and prepare patient samples, such as blood, urine, and tissue, for testing.

• Obtain samples using various techniques (e.g., venipuncture, urinalysis).
• Process and prepare samples for analysis using appropriate equipment and reagents.

2. Laboratory Testing

MLTs perform laboratory tests to analyze samples and detect abnormalities.

• Conduct tests using automated or manual laboratory equipment.
• Interpret results and identify potential abnormalities or pathogens.

3. Data Analysis and Reporting

MLTs analyze and interpret test results, prepare reports, and communicate findings to healthcare professionals.

• Review and interpret laboratory data to identify trends or significant findings.
• Prepare clear and accurate written and verbal reports.

4. Quality Control and Assurance

MLTs ensure the accuracy and reliability of laboratory tests and procedures.

• Follow established quality control protocols to ensure test accuracy and precision.
• Monitor laboratory equipment and reagents to maintain optimal performance.

5. Patient Care Support

MLTs provide support to patients and healthcare professionals by answering questions and providing technical assistance.

• Provide information and guidance to patients regarding laboratory testing.
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to interpret test results and make informed decisions.

To ace the interview for a Medical Laboratory Technologist position, consider the following tips:

1. Research the Organization and Position

Thoroughly research the organization and the specific role you’re applying for. This knowledge will help you tailor your answers to the company’s needs and the position’s requirements.

• Review the organization’s website, mission statement, and recent news.
• Understand the key responsibilities and qualifications for the Medical Laboratory Technologist position.

2. Prepare for Technical Questions

Be prepared to answer questions about your technical skills and knowledge in the field of medical laboratory science.

• Review fundamental laboratory techniques, such as blood collection, microscopy, and molecular diagnostics.
• Be familiar with common laboratory equipment, such as automated analyzers and microscopes.

3. Highlight Your Experience and Skills

Emphasize your relevant experience and skills that align with the job requirements. Use specific examples to demonstrate your proficiency.

• Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible (e.g., “Developed and implemented a new quality control protocol that reduced test turnaround time by 15%”).
• Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities (e.g., “Analyzed laboratory data,” “Prepared written and verbal reports”).

4. Demonstrate Your Passion and Motivation

Convey your enthusiasm for the field of medical laboratory science and your motivation to contribute to the organization.

• Explain why you chose this career path and what drives your interest in it.
• Share any relevant volunteer or extracurricular experiences that showcase your passion for healthcare.

5. Practice Your Interview Skills

Practice answering common interview questions and prepare your own questions to ask the interviewer. This will help you feel more confident and prepared during the actual interview.

• Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
• Prepare questions that demonstrate your interest in the organization and the position.