What Is a Lab Technician?

Lab technicians are responsible for analyzing and preparing body fluids samples and accurately reporting the results. Usually these types of technicians have an associate's degree and special on-the-job training. They can work in both freestanding laboratories and also those connected to hospitals.

They might analyze blood, urine, bone marrow, cerebrospinal fluid, and even hair, mucus, or sperm. Being a lab technician is not for the faint of heart, because in addition to preparing and analyzing body fluid samples, the technician also needs to have a basic understanding of how to run the machines that assist with the analyzing.

Lab technicians need to pay close attention to detail in their work. They need to accurately report their findings to the physicians that order the tests. A mistake in their work could mean a patient not receiving the correct treatment.