phlebo.2

• Clinical laboratory


  Divided into two areas: anatomical and clinical
• Anatomical area responsibilities


  • Analysis of surgical specimens
  • Frozen sections
  • Biopsies
  • Cytological specimens
  • Autopsies
• Sections of the anatomical area

  • Cytology
  • Histology
  • Cytogenetics
• Cytology section


  Cytologists (CTs) process and examine tissue and body fluids for the presence of abnormal cells, such as cancer cells
• Papanicolaou (Pap) smear


  One of the most common tests performed in cytology
• Histology section


  Histology technicians (HTs) and technologists (HTLs) process and stain tissue obtained from biopsies, surgery, autopsies, and frozen sections. A pathologist then examines the tissue.
• Cytogenetics


  Section in which chromosome studies are performed to detect genetic disorders. Blood, amniotic fluid, tissue, and bone marrow specimens are analyzed.
• Clinical area sections


  • Hematology
  • Coagulation
  • Chemistry
  • Blood bank (immunohematology)
  • Serology (immunology)
  • Microbiology
  • Urinalysis
  • Phlebotomy
  • Sample processing
• Laboratory information system (LIS) department


  Responsible for laboratory computer operations, maintaining records, and documentation for compliance with accrediting regulations
• In some institutions, certain sections may be combined in a core laboratory for more efficient use of personnel
• Clinical laboratory personnel


  • Laboratory Director (Pathologist)
  • Laboratory Manager (Administrator)
  • Technical Supervisor
  • Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS)
  • Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT)
  • Laboratory Assistant
  • Phlebotomist
• Laboratory Director (Pathologist)


  A physician who has completed a 4- to 5-year pathology residency. Responsible for the anatomical and clinical areas of the laboratory, working with the laboratory administrator to establish policies, interpret test results, perform biopsies and autopsies, and diagnose disease.
• Laboratory Manager (Administrator)

  Responsible for overall technical and administrative management of the laboratory, including personnel and budgets. Usually an MLS with a master's degree and 5+ years of experience.
• Technical Supervisor

  An MLS with experience and expertise related to the particular laboratory section(s). Responsible for reviewing test results, consulting with pathologist, scheduling personnel, maintaining instruments, preparing budgets, orienting and evaluating personnel, and providing research protocols.