# Tasks & work activities — medical laboratory assistant

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 29-2012.00 (Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Set up, maintain, calibrate, clean, and test sterility of medical laboratory equipment.
- **[Core]** Conduct chemical analyses of body fluids, such as blood or urine, using microscope or automatic analyzer to detect abnormalities or diseases and enter findings into computer.
- **[Core]** Analyze the results of tests or experiments to ensure conformity to specifications, using special mechanical or electrical devices.
- **[Core]** Collect blood or tissue samples from patients, observing principles of asepsis to obtain blood sample.
- **[Core]** Supervise or instruct other technicians or laboratory assistants.
- **[Core]** Prepare standard volumetric solutions or reagents to be combined with samples, following standardized formulas or experimental procedures.
- **[Supplemental]** Analyze and record test data to issue reports that use charts, graphs, or narratives.
- **[Supplemental]** Perform medical research to further control or cure disease.
- **[Supplemental]** Conduct blood tests for transfusion purposes and perform blood counts.
- **[Supplemental]** Obtain specimens, cultivating, isolating, and identifying microorganisms for analysis.
- **[Supplemental]** Examine cells stained with dye to locate abnormalities.
- **[Supplemental]** Consult with a pathologist to determine a final diagnosis when abnormal cells are found.
- **[Supplemental]** Test raw materials, processes, or finished products to determine quality or quantity of materials or characteristics of a substance.

## Detailed work activities

- Analyze laboratory findings.
- Analyze laboratory specimens to detect abnormalities or other problems.
- Analyze test data or images to inform diagnosis or treatment.
- Clean medical equipment or facilities.
- Collect biological specimens from patients.
- Conduct research to increase knowledge about medical issues.
- Cultivate micro-organisms for study, testing, or medical preparations.
- Enter patient or treatment data into computers.
- Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care.
- Maintain medical laboratory equipment.
- Operate laboratory equipment to analyze medical samples.
- Prepare biological specimens for laboratory analysis.
- Prepare medical supplies or equipment for use.
- Supervise technical medical personnel.
- Test biological specimens to gather information about patient conditions.
- Test materials, solutions, or samples.
- Test quality of materials or finished products.
- Train medical providers.