MLT vs Nursing

Deciding between a medical lab technician vs nursing course can be tricky. Though they differ, both offer certain advantages and have specific roles. This blog will discuss what to consider while choosing one over the other and guide your career choice in the healthcare sector. So, read on!

What does a Medical lab technician do?

Have you ever found it interesting to work in a lab running tests? Let us discuss training to become medical lab technicians.

Learning how to test samples of tissues and body fluids like blood and urine can assist doctors in diagnosing what's going on within a patient's body. That’s what a medical lab technician (MLT) does. Likewise, there are other responsibilities as well. You will learn about them in the following sections of this blog. Before that, understand how you can become a medical lab technician.

How to become a Medical lab technician?

You have to attend a medical lab technician course to be an MLT. Usually, these programs take four years to complete. The eligibility of this course is that the candidates should have passed their 10+2 or an equivalent exam with the science stream having physics, chemistry, and biology (PCB), with a minimum aggregate of 40% marks.

You will learn all about lab work and testing throughout your education. You will study medical terminology, significant terms for medical stuff, anatomy, learning about the human body, and lab equipment usage.

You can check out the ITM Bachelor of Science in Medical Lab Technology program for medical lab technician course details, including eligibility, curriculum, and fees.

What is Nursing?

Nursing is a healthcare career that involves helping people, families, and communities preserve or recover ideal health. The various responsibilities of nurses include:

  • Maintaining medical records
  • Developing and implementing nursing care plans
  • Assessing patient requirements and health conditions

They provide direct patient care and emotional support to patients and their families. Thus, a nurse in the room will help the patient in every way necessary.

What is the eligibility to become a nurse?

Candidates must fulfill the following eligibility criteria to become a nurse:

  • You must be 17 years old by December 31 of the application year.
  • You must have passed English, completed 10+2 with science (PCB), and achieved a minimum aggregate of 40%.
  • You must have cleared the Nursing CET test.

Your studies will include the human body, medicine, and patient care. Working at clinics and hospitals will provide you with practical experience.

Lab technician and Nursing: A look at the differences

Now, let's compare the two professions to get an answer to the common question: Nursing or MLT, which is better?