Medical Laboratory Procedures and Techniques

Microbiology, serology, virology, parasitology and bacteriology focuses on culturing, isolating and identifying pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites and deals with the diseases caused by these infectious agents. It is a very dynamic area which requires extended education and formal training from a qualified school.

Clinical and medical laboratory personnel examine and analyze body fluids, and cells. They look for bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms; analyze the chemical content of fluids; match blood for transfusions; and test for drug levels in the blood that show how a patient is responding to treatment. Technologists also prepare specimens for examination, count cells, and look for abnormal cells in blood and body fluids. They use microscopes, cell counters, and other sophisticated laboratory equipment. They also use automated equipment and computerized instruments capable of performing a number of tests simultaneously. After testing and examining a specimen, they analyze the results and relay them to physicians.