Serology
Serology is a medical testing field that looks at blood samples to detect antibodies and other substances that show if someone has been exposed to specific diseases or infections. Think of it like detecting footprints that diseases leave behind in blood. This type of testing has become especially well-known during the COVID-19 pandemic, where antibody tests helped determine if people had previous infections. Medical laboratories use serology tests to diagnose various conditions, from viral infections to autoimmune diseases. It's a crucial part of medical diagnostics, similar to other testing methods like molecular testing or microscopy.
Examples in Resumes
Performed over 200 Serology and Serological tests daily in a high-volume clinical laboratory
Supervised Serology department operations and trained new technologists in Serological testing procedures
Implemented quality control measures for Serology testing protocols that improved accuracy by 25%
Typical job title: "Serology Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Serology Technicians
Professional Organizations
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle quality control failures in the serology department?
Expected Answer: A senior technologist should explain the process of investigating the root cause, implementing corrective actions, documenting the incident, retraining staff if needed, and ensuring proper validation before resuming testing.
Q: What experience do you have with laboratory accreditation processes?
Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with CAP, CLIA, or similar accreditation programs, maintaining documentation, preparing for inspections, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure accuracy in serological testing?
Expected Answer: Should mention running controls, following standard operating procedures, proper sample handling, regular equipment maintenance, and documentation of results.
Q: What steps do you take when you receive an unusual test result?
Expected Answer: Should describe the process of result verification, repeat testing if necessary, checking quality control, consulting with supervisors, and proper documentation of actions taken.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What safety precautions do you take when handling blood samples?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper PPE use, following universal precautions, proper specimen handling, and knowledge of exposure protocols.
Q: Can you explain the basic principle of antibody testing?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms how antibody tests work to detect previous exposure to diseases or conditions through blood testing.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic blood sample processing
- Running routine serological tests
- Following safety protocols
- Basic quality control procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced testing procedures
- Quality control monitoring
- Equipment maintenance
- Result interpretation and verification
Senior (5+ years)
- Department supervision
- Training and mentoring
- Quality assurance management
- Laboratory accreditation procedures
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of understanding of basic laboratory safety protocols
- No experience with quality control procedures
- Unable to explain proper sample handling techniques
- Poor documentation practices
Related Terms
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