Clinical laboratory technicians perform complex chemical, biological, hematological, immunologic, microscopic, and bacteriological tests. Laboratory technicians are responsible for running test on blood and other body fluids. They also microscopically

• examine blood
• analyze body fluids
• analyze tissues and cells

They look for bacteria, parasites and other microorganisms and analyze the chemical content of fluids, match blood for transfusions and test for drug levels in the blood to show how a patient is responding to treatment.

Laboratory technicians use automated equipment and sophisticated, expensive instruments capable of performing a number of tests simultaneously. They also use other lab equipment, including microscopes and cell counters. Laboratory technicians are important because they have the skills to perform laboratory tests which helps patients obtain results sooner, making the process more efficient.