What is a Blood Bank Technology Specialist?

A blood bank technology specialist is a scientist who collects and analyzes donated blood to be used for transfusions. He or she is responsible for making sure blood donations are high quality, free of disease, and safe for transfusion into certain patients. A blood bank technology specialist uses a number of complicated laboratory tools and testing techniques to determine the components and type of a blood sample. Many specialists assist physicians in actual blood transfusion procedures.

Donors must be thoroughly interviewed and examined before they are allowed to give blood. A blood bank technology specialist often performs these initial screenings and, when donors are deemed suitable, draw certain quantities of blood. The specialist then analyzes a sample to confirm blood type and to ensure that it is not tainted. Quality blood is labeled and carefully stored for use in transfusions. In some instances, a specialist may perform tests on the patient in need of the transfusion to make sure his or her system will be compatible and responsive to new blood.

Blood bank technology specialists use sophisticated laboratory equipment and computer technology to analyze blood. They may use microscopes and cell counters, for example, to determine the exact components of a sample. In some clinics, specialists are required to separate blood into its component parts, such as plasma, red blood cells and white blood cells. Specialists usually store data about blood samples in computer systems.

To work as a blood bank technology specialist, a person must typically obtain at least a bachelor's degree in medical technology from a four-year college or university, though many specialists choose to pursue master's degrees. In addition, a new specialist must complete one to two years of paid, formal training in a hospital or clinic, and pass a certification test. Trainees typically work as assistants to experienced specialists, helping them collect samples and learning about different laboratory techniques. In the United States, blood bank technology specialist certification is offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Most countries have organizations similar to the ASCP which administer certification exams to new specialists.

Most blood bank technology specialists work in hospitals and community donation centers. Some specialists work at private, independent laboratories, researching new and unfamiliar blood diseases. In addition, experienced specialists often find employment with research and development laboratories in institutions that manufacture new blood bank equipment. Those with advanced degrees might choose to work at universities, teaching medical technology courses and supervising laboratory research work.