40+ Pathology Lab Technician Interview Questions and Answers

Sysmex xn350 and Sysmex xn550 are both hematology analyzers used in pathology labs, but they differ in terms of their capabilities and features.

• Sysmex xn350 is an older model, while Sysmex xn550 is a newer and more advanced version.

• Sysmex xn550 offers additional parameters and improved performance compared to xn350.

• The xn550 has a higher throughput, allowing for faster sample processing.

• The xn550 may have enhanced software features and user interface compared to xn350.

• Sysmex ...read more

NABH and NABL are accreditation bodies for healthcare and laboratory services, ensuring quality and safety standards.

• NABH stands for National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers.

• NABL stands for National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories.

• NABH focuses on hospital management and patient safety, while NABL emphasizes laboratory testing quality.

• Normal platelet count for babies ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter...read more

Liver Function Tests typically include 6 to 10 parameters to assess liver health and function.

• Common parameters include: AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)

• ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) is another key enzyme measured.

• ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) helps evaluate bile duct function.

• Total Bilirubin levels indicate liver's ability to process waste.

• Albumin levels assess the liver's protein production capability.

• Prothrombin Time (PT) measures blood clotting ability related to liver func...read more

Anemia can lead to fatigue, pallor, and various symptoms depending on its cause and severity.

• Fatigue and weakness due to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues.

• Pallor or pale skin, especially noticeable in the face and conjunctiva.

• Shortness of breath during physical activity as the body struggles for oxygen.

• Dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up quickly.

• Cold hands and feet due to poor circulation.

• Heart palpitations or an increased heart rate as the heart work...read more

Normal TSH levels in pediatric patients vary by age, typically ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 mIU/L.

• Newborns (0-1 month): 1.0 - 39.0 mIU/L

• Infants (1-12 months): 0.7 - 6.4 mIU/L

• Children (1-5 years): 0.5 - 5.0 mIU/L

• Older children (6-10 years): 0.5 - 4.5 mIU/L

• Adolescents (11-18 years): 0.5 - 4.0 mIU/L

Normal total blood count ranges vary for adults, indicating overall health and potential medical conditions.

• White Blood Cells (WBC): 4,500 to 11,000 cells per microliter.

• Red Blood Cells (RBC): 4.7 to 6.1 million cells per microliter for men; 4.2 to 5.4 million for women.

• Hemoglobin: 13.8 to 17.2 grams per deciliter for men; 12.1 to 15.1 grams for women.

• Hematocrit: 40.7% to 50.3% for men; 36.1% to 44.3% for women.

• Platelets: 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter.

Clinical pathology tests include blood tests, urine tests, and other bodily fluid tests to diagnose and monitor diseases.

• Complete blood count (CBC)

• Blood chemistry tests

• Urinalysis

• Coagulation tests

• Serology tests

• Microbiology tests

• Hematology tests

• Immunology tests

• Endocrine function tests

• Tumor marker tests

Understanding CBC, microscope parts, and TAT is essential for a Pathology Lab Technician's role.

• 1) CBC (Complete Blood Count) measures components like red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets.

• 2) Key microscope parts include the eyepiece, objective lenses, stage, and light source, essential for viewing specimens.

• 3) TAT (Turnaround Time) refers to the time taken from sample collection to result reporting, crucial for timely diagnosis.

Analytical, pre-analytical, and post-analytical errors impact lab results and patient care in pathology.

• Pre-analytical errors occur before testing, e.g., incorrect sample collection or labeling.

• Analytical errors happen during testing, e.g., equipment malfunction or reagent issues.

• Post-analytical errors arise after testing, e.g., misinterpretation of results or reporting errors.

• Example of pre-analytical: Blood sample drawn from the wrong patient.

• Example of analytical: A calibr...read more

HIV testing methods include antibody tests, antigen tests, and nucleic acid tests, each with varying sensitivity and specificity.

• Antibody Tests: Detect antibodies to HIV, e.g., ELISA and rapid tests.

• Antigen Tests: Identify HIV antigens, e.g., p24 antigen tests.

• Nucleic Acid Tests (NAT): Detect HIV RNA, used for early diagnosis.

• Home Testing Kits: Allow individuals to test at home, e.g., OraQuick.

• Combination Tests: Detect both antibodies and antigens, e.g., 4th generation tests.

Normal sodium levels in the blood typically range from 135 to 145 mEq/L, crucial for various bodily functions.

• Sodium is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body.

• Normal levels help regulate blood pressure and blood volume.

• Hypoatremia (low sodium) can cause symptoms like confusion and seizures.

• Hypernatremia (high sodium) may lead to thirst, confusion, and muscle twitching.

Normal Vitamin B12 levels typically range from 200 to 900 pg/mL, essential for nerve function and blood cell production.

• Normal range: 200-900 pg/mL (picograms per milliliter).

• Levels below 200 pg/mL may indicate deficiency.

• Deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological issues.

• Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products like meat, eggs, and dairy.

Normal Vitamin D levels range from 20 to 50 ng/mL, essential for bone health and immune function.

• Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health.

• Levels below 20 ng/mL indicate deficiency, potentially leading to bone disorders.

• Levels between 20-50 ng/mL are considered adequate for most individuals.

• Above 50 ng/mL may indicate excess, which can lead to toxicity.

Overview of sample collection, CBC normal ranges, and order of draw for lab tests.

• Sample Collection Procedure: Use proper aseptic techniques to avoid contamination.

• CBC Normal Range: WBC: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/L, RBC: 4.7-6.1 million cells/µL (men), 4.2-5.4 million cells/µL (women).

• Order of Draw: 1) Blood culture, 2) Citrate (blue), 3) Serum (red), 4) Heparin (green), 5) EDTA (lavender), 6) Glycolytic inhibitor (gray).

Yes, I am comfortable working on fully automated biochemistry.

• I have experience working with automated biochemistry analyzers.

• I am familiar with the software used to operate these machines.

• I am comfortable troubleshooting any issues that may arise during operation.

• I understand the importance of quality control and follow all necessary protocols.

• I am willing to learn and adapt to new technologies as they emerge.

Mixing samples ensures uniform distribution of components for accurate test results.

• Prevents sedimentation of cells or particles in the sample.

• Ensures homogeneity, which is crucial for accurate measurements.

• Example: In blood samples, mixing prevents clotting and ensures even distribution of cells.

To troubleshoot, identify the problem, gather information, analyze data, and implement solutions.

• Identify the problem by observing and asking questions.

• Gather information by conducting tests, reviewing records, and consulting colleagues.

• Analyze data to determine the cause of the problem.

• Implement solutions by following established protocols or seeking guidance from supervisors.

• Examples: troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, identifying errors in test results.

Electrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge, crucial for various physiological functions.

• Sodium (Na+): Regulates fluid balance and blood pressure.

• Potassium (K+): Essential for muscle function and nerve signaling.

• Calcium (Ca2+): Important for bone health, muscle contraction, and blood clotting.

• Chloride (Cl-): Helps maintain osmotic pressure and acid-base balance.

• Bicarbonate (HCO3-): Plays a key role in maintaining pH balance in the body.

• Magnesium (Mg2+)...read more

Analytical errors in pathology labs can occur during sample processing, testing, or data interpretation.

• Pre-analytical errors: Incorrect sample collection, such as using the wrong tube type.

• Analytical errors: Instrument calibration issues leading to inaccurate results.

• Post-analytical errors: Misinterpretation of results due to lack of clinical context.

• Example: A hemoglobin A1c test showing false high results due to a lab error in reagent preparation.

Yes, I possess a valid RPMC registration certificate, which is essential for practicing as a Pathology Lab Technician.

• RPMC stands for the Rajasthan Medical Council, which regulates medical professionals in the state.

• Having an RPMC registration ensures compliance with local medical laws and standards.

• It demonstrates my commitment to maintaining professional standards in pathology.

• For example, I completed the registration process after fulfilling all educational and training re...read more

The reference range of urea is typically between 7-20 mg/dL.

• Urea is a waste product formed in the liver and excreted by the kidneys.

• The reference range may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and the method used for testing.

• Abnormal levels of urea may indicate kidney or liver dysfunction.

• High protein diets and dehydration can also affect urea levels.

• Normal range for urea is 2.5-6.4 mmol/L or 15-40 mg/dL.

The Sysmex xn 350 is a hematology analyzer used in pathology labs to perform blood cell counts and provide diagnostic information.

• Start by turning on the Sysmex xn 350 and allowing it to initialize.

• Prepare the blood sample by properly labeling and handling it.

• Load the sample onto the instrument, ensuring it is properly positioned.

• Select the desired test parameters and run the analysis.

• Review the results displayed on the instrument's screen or print them out.

• Clean and maintain...read more

Various methods for collecting different types of blood samples.

• Venipuncture: Collecting blood from a vein using a needle and syringe.

• Fingerstick: Pricking the finger to obtain a small drop of blood.

• Heelstick: Collecting blood from the heel of an infant.

• Arterial puncture: Collecting blood from an artery, often done for arterial blood gas analysis.

• Bone marrow aspiration: Collecting a sample of bone marrow for analysis.

• Cord blood collection: Collecting blood from the umbilical ...read more

Pathology lab technicians commonly collect blood samples from three main veins: median cubital, cephalic, and basilic veins.

• Median Cubital Vein: Most commonly used; located in the antecubital fossa.

• Cephalic Vein: Located on the lateral side of the forearm; useful for obese patients.

• Basilic Vein: Located on the medial side; often more challenging due to proximity to nerves.

CBG stands for Capillary Blood Glucose, a test measuring glucose levels in capillary blood.

• CBG is often used for monitoring diabetes management.

• It provides quick results, useful for immediate decision-making.

• Commonly performed using a glucometer, a portable device.

• CBG levels help determine if a patient needs insulin or dietary adjustments.

WBC stands for White Blood Cells, crucial components of the immune system that help fight infections and diseases.

• WBCs are produced in the bone marrow and lymphatic system.

• There are different types of WBCs, including lymphocytes, neutrophils, and monocytes.

• An elevated WBC count can indicate infection, inflammation, or other medical conditions.

• Normal WBC count ranges from 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter of blood.

Yes, I am a DMLT passout from RPMC, equipped with skills in laboratory techniques and patient care.

• Completed DMLT program from RPMC with a focus on clinical pathology.

• Gained hands-on experience in blood sample collection and analysis.

• Trained in using laboratory equipment like microscopes and analyzers.

• Participated in internships that enhanced my practical skills in diagnostics.