100+ Medical Laboratory Technician Interview Questions and Answers

DCT test stands for Direct Coombs Test.

• DCT test is a blood test used to detect antibodies that can cause destruction of red blood cells.

• It is commonly performed to diagnose and monitor autoimmune hemolytic anemia.

• The test involves mixing the patient's red blood cells with antibodies to see if they clump together.

• Positive results indicate the presence of antibodies on the surface of red blood cells.

• Negative results suggest the absence of antibodies.

The subject in blood collection refers to the person from whom the blood sample is being collected.

• The subject should be properly identified before blood collection.

• The subject's arm should be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.

• The subject should be instructed to keep their arm still during the collection process.

• The subject's blood pressure should be checked before collection if necessary.

• The subject's medical history should be taken into consideration before collection.

Anemia is a condition where the hemoglobin levels in the blood are lower than normal.

• Anemia is a common condition that can be caused by various factors such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or chronic diseases.

• Symptoms of anemia include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

• Treatment for anemia depends on the underlying cause and may include dietary changes, supplements, or medications.

• Common types of anemia include iron-deficiency anemia...read more

Normal values of routine blood tests vary depending on the test performed.

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Hemoglobin (Hb) - 12-16 g/dL for women and 14-18 g/dL for men

• CBC: White Blood Cell (WBC) count - 4,500-11,000 cells/mcL

• CBC: Platelet count - 150,000-450,000/mcL

• Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): Glucose - 70-99 mg/dL

• BMP: Sodium (Na) - 135-145 mEq/L

• BMP: Potassium (K) - 3.5-5.0 mEq/L

• BMP: Chloride (Cl) - 98-106 mEq/L

• BMP: Carbon Dioxide (CO2) - 23-29 mEq/L

• BMP: Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)...read more

Microbiology procedure starts with obtaining a sample and preparing it for analysis.

• Obtain a sample from the patient or environment

• Prepare the sample for analysis by culturing it on appropriate media

• Identify the microorganisms present using various techniques such as staining, biochemical tests, and molecular methods

• Perform susceptibility testing to determine the most effective antibiotic for treatment

• Report the results to the healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment

• Ex...read more

The normal range of RBS (Random Blood Sugar) is typically between 70-140 mg/dL.

• Normal range of RBS is 70-140 mg/dL

• RBS levels above 140 mg/dL may indicate hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)

• RBS levels below 70 mg/dL may indicate hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

Component separation types of blood bags include single, double, and triple bags.

• Single bags are used for collecting whole blood or packed red blood cells.

• Double bags are used for separating plasma from red blood cells.

• Triple bags are used for separating plasma, platelets, and red blood cells.

Medical laboratory technicians handle and perform quality control on various types of machines used for testing and analyzing samples.

• Medical laboratory technicians handle machines such as hematology analyzers, chemistry analyzers, and microbiology equipment.

• They perform quality control checks to ensure accurate and reliable test results.

• Quality control procedures may include running control samples, calibrating instruments, and troubleshooting any issues with the machines.

• Re...read more

I handle various types of machines for conducting tests in a medical laboratory.

• I handle automated analyzers for blood tests

• I operate centrifuges for separating blood components

• I use microscopes for examining cells and microorganisms

• I work with PCR machines for genetic testing

I have checked lab tests for over 500 patients in my career.

• I have checked lab tests for a variety of patients, including adults, children, and elderly individuals.

• I have experience with a wide range of lab tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, and microbiology tests.

• I have worked in different healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and research laboratories.

I have X years of experience as a Medical Laboratory Technician.

• I have worked in various medical laboratories and have experience in performing various tests and procedures.

• I am familiar with laboratory equipment and have experience in maintaining and troubleshooting them.

• I have experience in handling and analyzing various samples such as blood, urine, and tissue samples.

• I have experience in following safety protocols and maintaining a clean and sterile work environment.

• I hav...read more

Three types of heart disease are coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmia.

• Coronary artery disease is caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart.

• Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

• Arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat that can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly.

There are four main blood groups: A, B, AB, and O.

• There are four main blood groups in the ABO system: A, B, AB, and O

• Each blood group is determined by the presence or absence of specific antigens on the surface of red blood cells

• Blood type O is considered the universal donor, while AB is considered the universal recipient

Blood group type refers to the classification of blood based on the presence or absence of certain antigens on the surface of red blood cells.

• There are four main blood groups: A, B, AB, and O.

• Blood group type is determined by the presence or absence of antigens A and B on the surface of red blood cells.

• The Rh factor, which is either positive or negative, is also taken into consideration when determining blood group type.

• Knowing a patient's blood group type is important for tr...read more

The best for your healthcare is to prioritize preventive measures and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

• Prioritize preventive measures such as regular check-ups and screenings

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle through exercise and balanced diet

• Avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

There are various tests for biochemicals depending on the substance being tested.

• Biochemical tests are used to detect and measure various substances in the body such as glucose, cholesterol, and enzymes.

• Examples of biochemical tests include blood glucose test, lipid profile test, liver function test, and kidney function test.

• These tests are important in diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease.

There are three types of blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

• Red blood cells carry oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body.

• White blood cells fight infections and diseases.

• Platelets help with blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding.

• Abnormal levels of any of these blood cells can indicate various medical conditions.

Yes, I am comfortable with working until 9 pm as the lab closes.

• I am comfortable with the closing time as it is within normal working hours.

• I understand the importance of completing tasks before the lab closes.

• I am willing to work late if necessary to ensure all work is completed.

• I have previous experience working late shifts in a lab setting.

The normal range for ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) is typically 0-22 mm/hr for men and 0-29 mm/hr for women.

• Normal range for ESR in men is 0-22 mm/hr

• Normal range for ESR in women is 0-29 mm/hr

• ESR values can vary based on age, gender, and other factors

Clinical pathology is a branch of pathology that focuses on the diagnosis of disease through the analysis of bodily fluids and tissues.

• Clinical pathology involves the analysis of blood, urine, and other bodily fluids to diagnose diseases.

• It also includes the examination of tissues obtained from biopsies or surgical procedures.

• Laboratory tests such as blood counts, chemistry panels, and microbiology cultures are commonly performed in clinical pathology.

• Clinical pathologists wo...read more

Histopathology lab uses various staining techniques to visualize different structures in tissues.

• Histopathology lab commonly uses Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining

• Other staining techniques include Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, Masson's trichrome staining, and immunohistochemistry

• Staining helps to differentiate between different cell types and structures in tissues

The test is adding basic fluids to determine the pH level of a sample.

• Basic fluids are added to the sample to change its pH level

• The pH level is then measured using a pH meter or indicator strips

• This test is commonly done in chemistry labs to determine the acidity or alkalinity of a substance

Yes, I am fluent in both Hindi and English.

• I can communicate effectively with patients and colleagues in both languages.

• I am able to read and understand medical documents in both languages.

• I can translate medical terminology accurately from English to Hindi and vice versa.

• I have experience working with patients who primarily speak Hindi.

• I am comfortable using both languages in a professional setting.

HIV infection occurs when the virus enters the body and attacks the immune system.

• HIV enters the body through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk.

• The virus targets CD4 cells, which are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system.

• HIV replicates inside CD4 cells, eventually leading to their destruction and weakening the immune system.

• As the immune system becomes compromised, the individual becom...read more

External quality control is a process used to monitor and maintain the accuracy and reliability of testing procedures in a laboratory.

• External quality control involves sending samples to an external agency for testing to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.

• Results from the external agency are compared to the laboratory's own results to identify any discrepancies.

• Any discrepancies found are investigated and corrective actions are taken to improve the testing procedures....read more

The normal range for white blood cell count (WBC) is typically between 4,500 and 11,000 cells per microliter of blood.

• Normal range for WBC 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

I have worked on several machines including the Roche Cobas 6000 and Sysmex XN-3000.

• Roche Cobas 6000

• Sysmex XN-3000

• Abbott Architect i2000SR

• Beckman Coulter AU480

• Siemens Advia 1800

• Bio-Rad D-10

• Ortho Clinical Vitros 5600

• Mindray BC-6800

• Horiba ABX Pentra 400

• Tosoh AIA-360

• DiaSorin Liaison XL

Machines are extensively used in labs for various purposes such as testing, analysis, and research.

• Machines are used to perform various tests such as blood tests, urine tests, and genetic tests.

• They are also used for analysis of samples such as tissue samples, body fluids, and microbiological samples.

• Machines are used for research purposes such as drug discovery, disease diagnosis, and treatment development.

• Examples of machines used in labs include microscopes, centrifuges, s...read more

Yes, serum is the clear, yellowish fluid that remains after blood has clotted.

• Serum is obtained by allowing the blood to clot and then removing the clot and the blood cells.

• It contains various proteins, electrolytes, hormones, and antibodies.

• Serum is used in various diagnostic tests to detect the presence of certain substances in the blood.

• Examples of tests that use serum include liver function tests, lipid profile, and hormone assays.

Technician roles refer to the specific responsibilities and tasks assigned to a medical laboratory technician.

• Technician roles involve performing various laboratory tests and procedures.

• They are responsible for collecting and analyzing samples, interpreting results, and maintaining accurate records.

• Technicians may also be involved in calibrating and maintaining laboratory equipment.

• They must follow strict protocols and safety measures to ensure accurate and reliable results.

• E...read more

I have handled various machines in my previous job as a medical laboratory technician.

• I have experience in handling automated analyzers such as chemistry analyzers, hematology analyzers, and immunoassay analyzers.

• I have also worked with manual equipment such as microscopes, centrifuges, and pipettes.

• I am familiar with troubleshooting and maintenance of the machines.

• I have received training on new equipment and software updates.

• Overall, I am comfortable with handling different...read more

Quality control is a process of ensuring that laboratory results are accurate and reliable.

• It involves monitoring and testing equipment and procedures

• It includes analyzing control samples to ensure accuracy

• It helps to identify and correct errors in the testing process

• It is essential for maintaining the integrity of laboratory results

Dilution is required when a sample is too concentrated to accurately measure, or when a specific concentration is needed for testing.

• Dilution is necessary when the sample is too concentrated for accurate results.

• It is also done to achieve a specific concentration needed for testing.

• Dilution factors are calculated based on the initial and final concentrations.

• Common examples include diluting blood samples for cell counting or urine samples for chemical analysis.

Critical values are specific values of hematological parameters that require immediate attention due to potential life-threatening conditions.

• Critical values are typically defined by the laboratory based on established guidelines and may vary depending on the institution.

• Examples of critical values include extremely low hemoglobin levels indicating severe anemia or very high white blood cell counts suggesting infection or leukemia.

• Immediate notification to the healthcare prov...read more

My aim is to utilize my skills and knowledge as a Medical Laboratory Technician to contribute to the healthcare industry by providing accurate and timely test results.

• To provide accurate and timely test results for patient diagnosis and treatment

• To ensure quality control and adherence to laboratory protocols

• To continuously update my knowledge and skills in the field of medical laboratory technology

I am sorry, but I cannot disclose my personal income as it is confidential information.

• Personal income is a private matter and not relevant to my qualifications for this position.

• I prefer to focus on my skills and experience in the medical lab field.

• Salary expectations can be discussed during the negotiation phase of the hiring process.

RFT stands for Renal Function Test, a group of tests used to evaluate how well the kidneys are functioning.

• RFT includes tests like serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

• These tests help in diagnosing and monitoring conditions like chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, and dehydration.

• Abnormal RFT results may indicate kidney dysfunction or other underlying health issues.

• RFT is an important tool in assessing renal health ...read more

Routine tests in medical laboratories include a wide range of parameters to assess various aspects of a patient's health.

• Routine tests cover parameters such as complete blood count (CBC), blood glucose levels, liver function tests (LFTs), kidney function tests (KFTs), lipid profile, and thyroid function tests (TFTs).

• CBC measures the number of red and white blood cells, hemoglobin levels, and platelet count.

• Blood glucose levels indicate the amount of sugar in the blood and hel...read more

EDTA stands for ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, a chelating agent commonly used in laboratories to prevent blood clotting by binding to calcium ions.

• EDTA is a chelating agent that binds to metal ions, particularly calcium, to prevent blood clotting.

• It is commonly used in blood collection tubes to preserve blood samples for testing.

• In laboratories, EDTA is used in various tests like complete blood count (CBC) and blood typing.

• It is also used in molecular biology techniques to...read more

Antibiotics used for GNB include ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, and meropenem.

• Ciprofloxacin

• Levofloxacin

• Meropenem

AFB staining is a laboratory technique used to detect acid-fast bacteria, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

• Prepare a smear of the specimen on a slide

• Fix the smear with heat or alcohol

• Stain the smear with carbol fuchsin

• Decolorize with acid-alcohol

• Counterstain with methylene blue

• Examine under a microscope for red acid-fast bacilli

The order of draw in sample collection is important to prevent cross-contamination and ensure accurate test results.

• Start with blood culture bottles to prevent contamination with additives from other tubes

• Follow with coagulation tubes (blue top), serum tubes (red top), and heparin tubes (green top)

• Finish with EDTA tubes (lavender top) for hematology tests

• Always follow the specific order recommended by the laboratory or facility

• Incorrect order of draw can lead to inaccurate te...read more

The pathology department deals with the study and diagnosis of diseases through examination of bodily fluids and tissues.

• Pathology involves the analysis of blood, urine, and tissue samples to identify diseases.

• The department may also perform autopsies to determine the cause of death.

• Pathologists work closely with other medical professionals to provide accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.

• Common tests performed in the pathology department include biopsies, Pap smears, and bl...read more

The lifespan of red blood cells (RBCs) is approximately 120 days.

• Red blood cells have a finite lifespan and are constantly being replaced by new cells.

• The average lifespan of RBCs is around 120 days, but it can vary slightly between individuals.

• After 120 days, old and damaged RBCs are removed from circulation by the spleen and liver.

• The production of new RBCs occurs in the bone marrow to maintain a constant supply.

• Certain medical conditions or disorders can affect the lifespa...read more

PT INR stands for Prothrombin Time International Normalized Ratio, a test used to measure how long it takes for blood to clot.

• PT INR is a test used to monitor the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications like warfarin.

• It is calculated by dividing the patient's PT by the average PT of a healthy population, raised to the power of the International Sensitivity Index (ISI).

• A normal PT INR value is typically between 2.0 and 3.0, but this range may vary depending on the reason f...read more

Dubai is an expensive city to live in, with high accommodation costs.

• Accommodation costs in Dubai are among the highest in the world.

• The cost of living in Dubai is generally high, with expenses such as food, transportation, and entertainment also being expensive.

• However, salaries for medical lab technicians in Dubai are also relatively high, which can help offset the high cost of living.

• It is important to research and budget carefully before moving to Dubai to ensure that you...read more

Ideal room temperature for a medical laboratory is typically between 68-73 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Ideal room temperature helps maintain accuracy of lab tests

• Temperature should be consistent to prevent fluctuations in results

• Common range is 68-73 degrees Fahrenheit

• Extreme temperatures can affect lab equipment and samples