Medical Laboratory Technologist Assessment

Core Laboratory Sara Campeau-Lancaster

Assessment of Knowledge
To assess the knowledge and understanding of an MLT within the core laboratory, the following questions could be asked:
While completing a routine chemistry analysis of a patient in the E.D. you observe that the sample is hemolyzed. To which of the analytes (Na, K, Cl, Urea, Creatinine) would you include a comment explaining that the presence of hemolysis can interfere with analysis? An oncology patient, who is frequently transfused with units of red cells, has developed a strong cold agglutinin. What steps need to be taken prior to the analysis of her CBC to ensure accurate results?

Assessment of Practical Skills

To assess the MLTs practical or bench skills, the following tasks could be asked of him/her:
The bilirubin result of a patient in liver failure exceeds the linearity of your chemistry analyzer. Perform a 1:4 dilution to obtain a result. The results of the urinalysis dipstick indicate 3+ RBC, 2+ WBC, + Nitrites, and trace protein. Perform the microscopic examination and record your findings.

Valid and Reliable

These questions and performance measures are entry level knowledge These questions are unambiguous and should result in the same answer from any technologist