ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS FOR THE MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN

The following is a list of physical capabilities and behavioral skills that have been identified as being necessary for success in the field of laboratory medicine.

Visual Observation
Visual observation must be sufficient and adequate to allow the student to:

  1. Differentiate color changes during the performance of laboratory procedures.
  2. Observe patient's condition during phlebotomy procedures.
  3. Read lab instrument technical procedure manuals, standard operating procedures, and a patient's chart.

Motor Function
Motor functions must be sufficient for the student to be able to:

  1. Perform venipuncture at patient's bedside or at another designated location.
  2. Lift and handle laboratory instruments and equipment.
  3. Manipulate medical laboratory instruments and equipment in a manner consistent with standards of medical laboratory practice.

Communication Skills
Communication skills must be sufficient for the student to be able to:

  1. Possess verbal and written skills adequate for transmitting information to co-workers and patients.
  2. Possess hearing for satisfactory communication with co-workers and patients.

Behavior and Social Skills
The student's behavior and social skills must be acceptable to an academic and clinical setting.

Critical Thinking Skills
The student must possess critical thinking ability sufficient for clinical judgement.