MLT vs. MLS in the Blood Bank

[ejani]

Our laboratory management would like to hire a MLT for Blood Bank.  How many of you have MLT's in the blood bank? And if so, what has been your experience?

Edited April 6, 2015 by ejani

[Eagle Eye]

No MLT. Only one clerical position without MT ---does clerical, log in blood, issue blood, prepare component etc,

[SMILLER]

We have used them for some time. We have some MTs (CLS) here that we would not even want to try to train for BB, and we have some MLTs (CLT) generalists that are very good there.

 

Since we have some MLTs on second and third shifts, we really have no choice, as to provide adequate coverage, those associates have to be able to work in all areas.  In general, I would say that their abilities are related more to adequate training and attitude than whether they have a 2 or 4 year degree. 

 

Scott

[tbostock]

We have both in our BB, but in NYS we have to make sure we always have a technical supervisor (BS degree with at least 6 years experience) present wherever high complexity testing is happening.  It's making hiring a little difficult.

[Karrieb61]

We have the same situation as tbostock- lots of MLTs and we have to have an MT on each shift as acting Supervisor. I also have no problem with MLTs and agree that it's all about the training, overall lab experience and personal dedication. We have a  couple of brand new MTs fresh out of college and even when fully "trained" I would never let them alone in the BB as they don't have the experience to deal with sudden traumatic situations.

[John C. Staley]

One of the best blood bank techs I worked with was an MLT (she struggled with the chemistry classes for MT).  For general day in and day out bench work I never had a problem with MLTs in the Blood Bank.   What I have found out recently is that not all certifications are created equal.  When I say MLT I am referring to one who has passed the ASCP exam.  They have the basic education to be trained in the blood bank. Any others, I would want details of their training and exam and experience before considering them. 

[L106]

I echo SMILLER's post.  It all depends on the individual's training, experience, & attitude.

[David Saikin]

I work with about a 50/50 mix.  Everybody does the same work.  I know in larger institutions the trend is all MTs/MLS.  In the smaller places there is usually not that luxury.  Just like John THE BEST blood bank tech I ever worked with (and learned a tremendous amount from) was an MLT.  She had worked at the NY Blood Center, published and knew all the blood bank demigods on a first name basis - Laurie Marsh, John & Marilyn Moulds, etc.  So it ain't just the sheepskin, it's what you do with it.

 

Personally, I think MLTs can do the work, they just don't have the background in blood bank science.  If they are going to be dedicated blood bankers then I would expect them to hone those skills.  I've seen a few MLTs get their MT and SBB so . . .

Edited April 14, 2015 by David Saikin

[ejani]

Thanks for all the great feedback!

[Auntie-D]

We have and they are invaluable for keeping the place running smoothly. They do all the equipment cleaning and maintenence, labelling of samples and inputting of the patient records (after thorough grilling on the importance of that step), they return the blood to stock and do sattelite fridge runs, they answer the phone (a godsend!) and pair up traceability records for checking later.

 

Our MLTs love that the job is more varied than what they did in Blood Sciences and they get paid a band higher due to the increase in responsibilty - it's a degree of progression if they want it. Some definitely don't and can't stomach the pressure.

[Sko681]

 I also have to caution that not all degrees are created equal.  Be aware that there are ONLINE MLT programs.  Yes, they still have to do clinical hours however they come in starting with such a low knowledge base, that the 2 week required stint in the department falls way way short.  I have seen them come in for rotations and not even be able to pipette.  They have a program where they perform tasks virtually ( like click a button to add reagents).  Its horrible.  I have to admit that those students, I would not hire for Blood Bank based on my experiences. 

 

I do have good things to say about  MLT's though.  I have seen several who were better than many 4 year techs.  I would say proceed with your eyes wide open.   MLT's sometiems get a raw deal in my opinion as in many facilities they are expected to perform exactly as an MT, but with less pay and education.