ALICE MALEMBO KASHIMBA

During my internship at the University Teaching Hospital, I had the opportunity to work in various laboratories, including Parasitology, Bacteriology, Central Processing Reception (Phlebotomy), Virology, Chemistry, Blood Bank, and Histopathology. This experience allowed me to gain hands-on expertise in different areas of clinical laboratory diagnostics and medical testing.

Parasitology Laboratory:

-Performed microscopic identification of various parasites in patient samples (e.g., stool, blood, urine).

-Prepared and stained specimens for examination.

Assisted in quality control procedures and maintained laboratory records.

Bacteriology Laboratory:

-Cultured and identified bacterial pathogens from various clinical specimens.

-Performed antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) to determine antibiotic sensitivity.

-Conducted Gram staining and other staining techniques for bacterial identification.

-Maintained aseptic techniques and ensured proper handling of biohazardous materials.

Virology Laboratory:

Performed viral isolation and identification techniques using cell cultures and molecular methods (e.g., PCR).

-Conducted serological tests for viral infections (e.g., ELISA).

-Assisted in the preparation of viral antigens and antibodies.

-Maintained strict safety protocols for handling viral samples.

Chemistry Laboratory:

-Operated various laboratory equipment (e.g., spectrophotometers, centrifuges, analyzers) to perform biochemical assays.

-Analyzed blood and other body fluids for various chemical components (e.g., glucose, electrolytes, lipids).

-Performed quality control procedures and calibrated laboratory instruments.

-Maintained accurate records of laboratory results.

Phlebotomy:

-Collected blood samples from patients using venipuncture techniques.

-Followed proper procedures for patient identification and sample labeling.

-Maintained a safe and sterile environment for blood collection.

Blood Bank:

-Performed blood grouping and cross-matching procedures for blood transfusions.

-Assisted in the preparation and storage of blood components.

-Maintained accurate records of blood inventory and transfusion procedures.

-Adhered to strict safety protocols for handling blood products.

Histopathology Laboratory:

-Prepared tissue specimens for microscopic examination by embedding, sectioning, and staining.

-Assisted in the interpretation of histopathological slides for diagnosis.

-Maintained accurate records of tissue specimens and pathology reports.

TB Laboratory:

-Performed acid-fast staining (Ziehl-Neelsen technique) for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

-Cultured and identified Mycobacterium tuberculosis from patient samples.

-Conducted drug susceptibility testing for TB.

-Maintained strict biosafety protocols for handling TB samples.