Sample this vocation

Aruna Singh 

Blood bank technology and clinical lab technology are important offshoots of medical field. Blood bank technicians are usually trained as phlebotomists and they work with patients to collect blood samples and their labelling. The technicians usually work in medical laboratories and blood banks, where they store blood of the donors for transmission. 

They also make sure that the collected blood is safe and examine the level of healthy molecules in the blood. The courses to train blood bank technicians fall in the ambit of the National Skills Development Corporation. 

Nature of work

Most activities of blood bank technicians are office based. They work only in blood banks and laboratories. Doing research with donor’s blood, knowing blood type, checking its safety and storing it for emergency are duties of a blood technician. 

Also, blood bank technician has to collect the related information about the patient. He also makes a record of blood. Those who want to pursue their career in this field should have good analytical skills.

Course and qualifications

A diploma and certificate course in blood bank technology from any recognised institute approved from an accredited board after Class XII makes one eligible for the job. The duration of the course is one or two years (varies from institute to institute). During this course, candidates are imparted practical training, which teaches them to check various blood samples and apart from this, essential elements of the blood are explained. They are also taught how to deal with  emergencies or how to handle demand for blood if a disaster strikes.  

Opportunities

On can apply for a government posts by taking SSC exams. A Diploma in Blood Bank Technology turns candidates into skilled blood bank technicians. These technicians ensure smooth functioning of a blood bank and can get jobs in government hospitals. 

 A candidate can also work in private hospitals or private labs. Renowned players from the field like Dr Path Lab and Ranbaxy have opened their labs in every city, which has created a huge demand for qualified professionals in this field.

Salary

On the basis of experience, one can also become a research and blood bank specialist. The salary begins from Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000, which increases with time and experience. One can also start one’s own lab, or work in a private lab.

Institute watch

• Delhi Paramedical and Management Institute, New Delhi
• Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Ambala, Haryana
• Shivalik Institute of Paramedical Technology, Chandigarh
• Indian Medical Institute of Nursing, Jalandhar, Punjab

— The writer is principal, Delhi Paramedical & Management Institute, New Delhi