30+ Lab Technician/Medical Technician/Lab Staff Interview Questions and Answers

The size of the needle used in regular medical procedures varies depending on the specific procedure and patient needs.

• Needles used in regular medical procedures come in different sizes, typically ranging from 18 to 30 gauge.

• The gauge of a needle refers to its diameter, with a higher gauge number indicating a smaller needle size.

• For example, a 30-gauge needle is thinner and smaller than an 18-gauge needle.

• The choice of needle size depends on factors such as the type of proced...read more

Reagents used in DNA and RNA extraction and their importance

• Reagents used in DNA extraction include cell lysis buffers, proteinase K, and phenol-chloroform.

• Reagents used in RNA extraction include TRIzol, chloroform, and isopropanol.

• Cell lysis buffers help break down cell membranes and release DNA.

• Proteinase K helps digest proteins that can interfere with DNA extraction.

• Phenol-chloroform is used for DNA purification and removal of contaminants.

• TRIzol is a common reagent for RN...read more

Blood is collected in a citrate tube to perform coagulation tests.

• Citrate tubes contain sodium citrate as an anticoagulant.

• They are used to measure clotting factors and assess bleeding disorders.

• Common tests include prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).

LFT tests are performed to assess liver function and diagnose liver diseases.

• LFT stands for Liver Function Test.

• It is a blood test that measures the levels of various enzymes, proteins, and substances in the blood to evaluate liver health.

• LFT helps in diagnosing liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease.

• It is also used to monitor the effectiveness of certain medications and treatments for liver conditions.

• LFT includes tests for liver enzymes (AST, A...read more

Thrombocytopenia is the medical term for a low platelet count.

• Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of platelets in the blood.

• It can be caused by various factors such as certain medications, autoimmune disorders, infections, or bone marrow disorders.

• Symptoms of thrombocytopenia may include easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, and petechiae (small red or purple spots on the skin).

• Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and severity of...read more

RBS stands for Random Blood Sugar. It is a test to measure the level of glucose in the blood at any given time.

• RBS is used to diagnose and monitor diabetes.

• The normal value for RBS is typically between 70-140 mg/dL.

• RBS is often performed without fasting, unlike FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar) and PLBS (Postprandial Blood Sugar).

• FBS measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast.

• PLBS measures blood glucose levels after a meal.

• Abnormal RBS values may indicate diabetes, hypogly...read more

The minimum time required for histopathology varies depending on the specific test or procedure being performed.

• Histopathology is a branch of pathology that involves the examination of tissue samples under a microscope.

• The minimum time required for histopathology can range from a few hours to several days, depending on factors such as sample preparation, staining, and analysis.

• For routine histopathology tests, the minimum turnaround time is typically around 24-48 hours.

• Howeve...read more

The media in use for blood culture is a specialized growth medium that supports the growth of bacteria or fungi present in the blood sample.

• Blood culture media typically contain a combination of nutrients, such as peptones, amino acids, and carbohydrates, to support microbial growth.

• Antibiotics or antifungal agents may be added to the media to inhibit the growth of normal flora and allow the detection of pathogens.

• Common examples of blood culture media include tryptic soy bro...read more

In RFT, I will perform various tests to assess the functioning of the respiratory system. Normal values vary depending on the specific test.

• In RFT (Respiratory Function Test), I will conduct tests to evaluate lung function and diagnose respiratory disorders.

• Some common RFT tests include spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusion capacity measurement.

• During spirometry, I will measure the volume and flow of air during inhalation and exhalation.

• Normal spirometry values i...read more

Chemistry is the scientific study of matter, its properties, composition, and interactions.

• Chemistry is a branch of science that deals with the structure, properties, and behavior of substances.

• It involves studying the composition, properties, and reactions of matter.

• Chemistry is used to understand and explain the behavior of atoms and molecules.

• It plays a crucial role in various fields such as medicine, pharmacy, environmental science, and materials science.

• Examples of chemi...read more

The most popular classical dance form from Andhra Pradesh is Kuchipudi.

• Kuchipudi originated in the village of Kuchipudi in Andhra Pradesh.

• It is a dance-drama performance art, with its roots in Hindu mythology and spiritual ideas.

• The dance form is known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures.

• Some famous Kuchipudi dancers include Yamini Krishnamurthy, Swapnasundari, and Shobha Naidu.

Qualitative PCR detects the presence or absence of a target DNA sequence, while quantitative PCR measures the amount of target DNA.

• Qualitative PCR determines if a specific DNA sequence is present or absent.

• Quantitative PCR measures the amount of target DNA in a sample.

• Qualitative PCR is used for diagnostic purposes, such as detecting the presence of a pathogen.

• Quantitative PCR is used for quantifying gene expression levels or viral load.

• Qualitative PCR results in a simple pos...read more

Chemotherapy is a treatment method that uses drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy is commonly used in the treatment of cancer.

• It can be administered orally, intravenously, or topically.

• There are different types of chemotherapy drugs, including alkylating agents, antimetabolites, and anthracyclines.

• Chemotherapy can be used as the primary treatment or in combination with other therapies like surgery or radiation.

• Common side effects of chemotherapy inclu...read more

The first sign of puberty in females is the development of breast buds.

• Breast buds are small bumps that appear under the nipples.

• Pubic hair growth and the onset of menstruation follow breast development.

• On average, breast development begins around age 10-11.

• The timing of puberty can vary greatly among individuals.

• Early or delayed puberty may indicate underlying medical conditions.

After vacuum circuit breaker trip, I will investigate the cause and reset the breaker if necessary.

• Investigate the cause of the trip

• Check for any faults or abnormalities in the circuit

• Reset the breaker if necessary

• Ensure proper functioning of the circuit after reset

Nucleic acid preservation temperature is crucial for maintaining sample integrity.

• Nucleic acids should be stored at low temperatures to prevent degradation.

• The ideal temperature for nucleic acid preservation is -80 degrees Celsius.

• Freezing nucleic acid samples helps to maintain their integrity and prevent enzymatic degradation.

• Some common methods of nucleic acid preservation include using liquid nitrogen or ultra-low temperature freezers.

Blood is a vital fluid in the human body that carries oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

• Blood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

• Red blood cells transport oxygen to the body's tissues.

• White blood cells help fight infections and diseases.

• Platelets aid in blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding.

• Plasma is a yellowish fluid that carries nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

• Blood types (A, B, AB, O) and Rh factor (positiv...read more

The anticoagulant present in leech is hirudin.

• Hirudin is a potent thrombin inhibitor.

• It is secreted by the salivary glands of medicinal leeches.

• Hirudin prevents blood from clotting by binding to thrombin and blocking its activity.

• It is used in medicine as an anticoagulant and in research as a tool to study blood clotting.

Various machines are used in a laboratory depending on the type of testing and analysis required.

• Microscopes for examining samples

• Centrifuges for separating components of a mixture

• Spectrophotometers for measuring light absorption

• PCR machines for amplifying DNA

• Autoclaves for sterilizing equipment

• Incubators for growing cultures

• HPLC machines for separating and analyzing compounds

• Gas chromatographs for analyzing gas mixtures

• Mass spectrometers for identifying compounds

• NMR machines...read more

Various machines are used in labs, including microscopes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, and PCR machines.

• Microscopes for examining samples at high magnification

• Centrifuges for separating components of a sample

• Spectrophotometers for measuring the amount of light absorbed by a sample

• PCR machines for amplifying DNA samples

• Other machines may include incubators, chromatography equipment, and electrophoresis equipment

I will prioritize tasks, use time management techniques, and seek help when necessary.

• I will create a to-do list and prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance.

• I will use time management techniques such as the Pomodoro technique to increase productivity.

• I will communicate with my team and seek help when necessary to avoid burnout and ensure tasks are completed on time.

• I will regularly assess my workload and adjust my strategies as needed to ensure efficiency.

CCP stands for Critical Control Point and OPRP stands for Operational Prerequisite Program.

• CCP is a step in the process where control can be applied to prevent, eliminate, or reduce a hazard to an acceptable level.

• OPRP is a step in the process where control can be applied to prevent, eliminate, or reduce a hazard to an acceptable level, but is not a CCP.

• Both CCP and OPRP are important in ensuring food safety in the food industry.

• Examples of CCPs include cooking, chilling, and...read more

WBC stands for white blood cells, which are a crucial part of the immune system.

• WBCs are a type of blood cell that help the body fight off infections and diseases.

• They are produced in the bone marrow and circulate in the bloodstream.

• WBC count is an important indicator of overall health and can be measured through a blood test.

• Abnormal WBC count can indicate various medical conditions, such as infections, leukemia, or autoimmune disorders.

The original color of RBC is red.

• RBC stands for red blood cell.

• The red color of RBC is due to the presence of a protein called hemoglobin.

• Hemoglobin binds to oxygen and carries it to different parts of the body.

• The red color of RBC helps in distinguishing it from other types of blood cells.

Reverse pipetting is a technique used in laboratories to accurately dispense small volumes of liquid.

• Reverse pipetting involves aspirating a larger volume of liquid into the pipette and then dispensing a smaller volume.

• This technique is used when high precision and accuracy are required, as it reduces the effects of pipetting errors.

• By reversing the pipetting process, any liquid remaining in the pipette tip is not included in the dispensed volume.

• Reverse pipetting is commonly...read more

CBP stands for Customs and Border Protection.

• CBP is a federal law enforcement agency in the United States.

• It is responsible for regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations.

• CBP also plays a crucial role in protecting the borders and preventing the entry of illegal goods and individuals.

• They conduct inspections at ports of entry, airports, and land borders to ensure compliance with customs and immigration laws.

• CBP of...read more

Maintain a healthy lifestyle and professional conduct.

• Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated

• Exercise regularly and get enough sleep

• Follow safety protocols and maintain cleanliness in the lab

• Be punctual and respectful towards colleagues and patients

• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards

• Continuously update knowledge and skills through training and education

The vaccine for yellow fever is a live attenuated vaccine made from the 17D strain of the virus.

• The vaccine is given as a single dose and provides lifelong immunity.

• It is recommended for people traveling to areas where yellow fever is endemic.

• The vaccine can cause mild side effects such as headache, fever, and muscle aches.

• It is not recommended for pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems, or those with a history of severe allergic reactions to eggs or chicken prod...read more

Normal values of sodium, potassium, and chloride are essential for maintaining proper electrolyte balance in the body.

• Normal value of sodium: 135-145 mEq/L

• Normal value of potassium: 3.5-5.0 mEq/L

• Normal value of chloride: 98-106 mEq/L

Normal value of TG is less than 150 mg/dL.

• TG stands for triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood.

• High levels of TG can increase the risk of heart disease.

• Normal value of TG is less than 150 mg/dL.

• Fasting for 9-12 hours is required before the test to get accurate results.

Milk adulteration refers to the addition of foreign substances to milk to increase its quantity or improve its appearance.

• Common adulterants include water, starch, urea, and detergent.

• Adulteration can lead to health problems such as food poisoning and allergies.

• Various tests such as the lactometer test and the alcohol test can be used to detect adulteration.

• Strict regulations and penalties are in place to prevent milk adulteration.

Food tech is the application of science and technology to improve the production, processing, preservation, and packaging of food.

• Food tech involves the use of various technologies to improve food production, processing, preservation, and packaging.

• It includes areas such as food safety, food engineering, food chemistry, and food microbiology.

• Examples of food tech innovations include genetically modified crops, food irradiation, and high-pressure processing.

• Food tech also play...read more

Microscopy of urine routine slide is a diagnostic test to examine urine sediment under a microscope.

• The urine sample is collected and centrifuged to separate the sediment.

• A drop of the sediment is placed on a slide and examined under a microscope.

• The test helps to detect abnormalities like red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, and crystals in the urine.

• It is used to diagnose urinary tract infections, kidney diseases, and other urinary system disorders.

It's chargeable because of the cost involved in running and maintaining the lab equipment and providing accurate results.

• Running and maintaining lab equipment is expensive

• Highly trained staff is required to operate the equipment

• Costs associated with purchasing and disposing of chemicals and other materials

• Quality control measures to ensure accurate results

• Investment in research and development to improve testing methods

• Insurance and liability costs

• Examples: blood tests, urine...read more

PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction. There are several types of PCR techniques used in laboratories.

• Real-time PCR

• Reverse Transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR)

• Nested PCR

• Multiplex PCR

• Digital PCR

RIA stands for Radioimmunoassay.

• RIA is a laboratory technique used to measure the concentration of specific substances in the blood or other bodily fluids.

• It combines the principles of radioactivity and immunology to detect and quantify substances like hormones, drugs, and antibodies.

• In RIA, a known amount of radioactive substance is mixed with a sample containing the substance of interest.

• The radioactive substance competes with a non-radioactive substance (labeled antigen) f...read more

Normal value of white blood cells (WBCs) is typically between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter of blood.

• Normal range of WBCs is 4,500-11,000 cells/microliter

• WBC count can vary based on age, gender, and health conditions

• Abnormal WBC count may indicate infection, inflammation, or other health issues