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Have you ever wanted to be a detective? Here's the science for you! If you are majoring in Biology, Chemistry, Microbiology or other sciences, consider a career in Clinical Laboratory Science. People who enjoy science, solving puzzles, working with laboratory instruments and computers while helping people at the same time, will find a perfect fit with clinical laboratory science careers. Clinical laboratory professionals are the detectives of the health care world. They search for clues to help in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. It is estimated that up to 75% of clinicians' decisions regarding a patient's diagnosis and treatment are based on laboratory test results. Clinical Laboratory Science is a joint program offered by Oregon Institute of Technology on the campus of the Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon. What is Clinical Laboratory Science?
Clinical Laboratory Science, also called medical technology, is a profession that combines the challenges and rewards of medicine with laboratory science. Clinical laboratory scientists perform complex and varied laboratory analyses, and use critical thinking skills in determining the accuracy and validity of test results. They recognize the interdependency of testing information and possess the knowledge of physiologic and pathologic conditions affecting results in order to support medical decisions. In diverse health care settings, clinical laboratory scientists provide test results used by such practitioners as physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians assistants, in determining: the presence, extent, and causes of disease; monitoring therapy; and evaluating testing protocols to insure optimum and safe public health applications. Some of the specific duties that clinical laboratory scientists perform include: - Developing and establishing procedures for collecting, processing, and analyzing biological samples;
- Operation of complex electronic instruments to analyze blood, body fluids, and other substances for the presence of normal, abnormal, and malignant chemical components and cells;
- Prepare blood for transfusion and match proper blood donor to recipient;
- Screen, evaluate, and monitor transplantation patients;
- Perform specialized and complex tests that include, flow cytometry, forensic testing, paternity testing, and cytogenetics; and molecular probes;
- Microscopically classify and differentiate normal and abnormal cells, microorganisms, and crystals;
- Examine responses of the immune system to foreign immunogens and infectious agents;
- Develop, evaluate, and select new techniques, instruments, and methods;
- Integrate and relate data generated by various clinical laboratory departments, while making decisions regarding possible discrepancies;
- Use computers for data management, inventory control, quality control, and information transfer;
- Establish and perform preventative and corrective maintenance of instrumentation;
- Provide leadership in educating health personnel and the community;
- Exercise principles of management, safety, and supervision.
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