Reference Intervals
Reference Intervals are the normal ranges used in medical testing to determine if a patient's test results are healthy or concerning. Think of them like a health "report card" where results can be normal, too high, or too low. Laboratory professionals use these ranges to help doctors make diagnoses. For example, when your doctor orders a blood test, the lab report shows your result alongside these reference ranges, helping to identify if anything is outside the normal range. These ranges can be different based on age, gender, or other factors. Similar terms include "normal ranges," "reference ranges," or "biological reference intervals."
Examples in Resumes
Established new Reference Intervals for pediatric blood testing panels
Validated and implemented Reference Ranges for 15 new laboratory tests
Led team in updating Biological Reference Intervals for regional laboratory network
Typical job title: "Laboratory Scientists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Laboratory Scientists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you establish new reference intervals for a pediatric population?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain the process of collecting appropriate samples, statistical analysis methods, and consideration of age-specific variations. They should mention the importance of proper population selection and validation procedures.
Q: What factors would you consider when updating reference intervals for your laboratory?
Expected Answer: Should discuss population demographics, analytical methods, equipment changes, regulatory requirements, and the process of validating new intervals. Should also mention the importance of communicating changes to healthcare providers.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you verify reference intervals from another laboratory or manufacturer?
Expected Answer: Should explain the process of collecting samples from healthy individuals, comparing results with established ranges, and statistical analysis needed to validate the intervals for local use.
Q: What documentation is needed when implementing new reference intervals?
Expected Answer: Should discuss regulatory requirements, validation data, approval processes, and communication procedures with healthcare providers and laboratory staff.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a reference interval and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that reference intervals are the normal ranges used to evaluate patient results, and why they're essential for proper result interpretation.
Q: How do age and gender affect reference intervals?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding that normal ranges can vary based on age, gender, and other demographic factors, with basic examples like hormone levels or hemoglobin ranges.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of laboratory testing procedures
- Familiarity with quality control measures
- Knowledge of common reference intervals
- Basic data entry and documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Reference interval validation
- Quality assurance procedures
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Method verification procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Establishment of new reference intervals
- Project management and team leadership
- Regulatory compliance expertise
- Method development and validation
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of understanding of basic statistical concepts
- No experience with laboratory information systems
- Unfamiliarity with regulatory requirements
- Poor documentation practices
- Limited knowledge of quality control procedures
Related Terms
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