Medical Laboratory Professionals Research Articles

Ergonomic Practice in Medical Laboratory Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Lahore

Objective: To evaluate the ergonomics practice pattern among medical laboratory professionals to determine the ergonomic deficiencies to improve the workplace quality and safety at a tertiary care hospital in Lahore Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in department of pathology, King Edward Medical University/Mayo Hospital, Lahore from November 2019 to January 2020. All the workers engaged in all the sections of the clinical laboratory were included in the study. The results were collected using a self-administered questionnaire, which included demographic information, ergonomic practices, workplace layouts and equipment utilization pattern. Individuals were instructed to complete the questionnaires in accordance to their own specific time range and return it after filling. All the data was gathered from the surveys and then coded and securely stored in a database for further analysis and interpretation. Results: Average age of the participants was 26.80±5.70 years. Several participants reported appropriate bench heights (70.7%) and tools within arm’s reach (62.2%), deficiencies were noted in foot and knee clearance, with only 50.0% and 53.7% respectively. Limited provision of foot rails (11.0%) and floor mats (31.7%) for prolonged standing tasks was seen. Seated benches showed similar disparities, with notable deficiencies in adjustable armrests (32.9%) and footrests (29.3%). Microscope usage demonstrated challenges in maintaining neutral posture (65.1%), while pipette use and micro-manipulation tools highlighted the need for improved accessibility and ergonomic support. Conclusion: Study revealed the varying levels of ergonomic appropriateness across the workplace and equipment among medical laboratory workers, with significant inadequacies in foot and knee clearance, the presence of foot rails, floor mats, adjustable armrests, and foot rests. Difficulties in using a microscope, as well as concerns about pipettes and micro-manipulation equipment, underscored the need for improved accessibility and ergonomics.

The “Silent Firefighters”: an examination and evaluation of peer support sessions for medical laboratory professionals in Canada

Purpose The Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Peer Support Project was a formal and virtual peer support group pilot for medical laboratory professionals in Canada to determine its application for CSMLS members and obtain information regarding the current state of medical laboratory professionals’ mental health, well-being and burnout. CSMLS learned what is contributing to stress at work, coping strategies and barriers to accessing support or help for their mental health among medical laboratory professionals. Design/methodology/approach The qualitative and exploratory pilot study examined medical laboratory professionals from Canada. Two peer support groups were facilitated in April and May 2022 by a trained mental health clinician. Peer support delivery was virtual and delivered via Zoom. The purposive sample featured medical laboratory technologists, Educators and Supervisors/Directors who were CSMLS members. The qualitative analysis was conducted via analytical memos and incorporated both manual and NVivo software analysis. Findings Overall themes were identified within the data analysis and included barriers to mental health care; increased stigma for mental health; mixed messaging regarding mental health; feeling invisible; medical laboratory professionals would like to manage stress better but their increasing workload demands and challenges with scheduling and staffing add to their stress. Participants also highlighted their role and its context using metaphors such as “the silent firefighters”, and “the Bass Guitar of the Hospital”. Based on the evaluations, the peer support sessions encouraged participants to address their own mental health, validate their experiences and increase their comfort level in discussing mental health. Social implications It identified a potential resource for medical laboratory professionals and determined that further mental health resources would be beneficial for their field. It also identified their strong commitment to patient care and their role as a medical laboratory professional. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to examine peer support as a mental health resource for medical laboratory professionals. Additionally, its focus was on a Canadian population with virtual delivery.

Medical laboratory scientist motivation to pursue graduate education

Abstract Background Medical laboratory staffing shortages have persisted, with challenges in maintaining adequate medical laboratory professionals. The career trajectory for medical laboratory scientists beyond entry level is ambiguous, but advancement opportunities are enhanced with specialist certifications and advanced degrees. Objective This study explored the motivation and preferences of medical laboratory scientists in pursuing graduate medical laboratory science education based on the importance of professional development, career advancement, recognition, and employment benefits. Methods A quantitative, cross-sectional, and descriptive correlational study surveyed American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification−credentialed medical laboratory scientists using an online questionnaire. Results The overall response rate was 2.5%, and 1247 complete surveys were analyzed. Educational preferences varied by respondent age and amount of laboratory experience. Professional development, career advancement, recognition, and employment benefits were all important motivators for seeking graduate degrees, but those who were younger and had less experience indicated they were more important. Conclusion This study suggests several areas of improvement for educational programs, health care organizations, and professional organizations to support the motivation of medical laboratory scientists to pursue graduate education.

Perception of artificial intelligence in medical laboratory professionals – A cross-sectional multi centre survey across Pakistan

Perception of artificial intelligence in medical laboratory professionals – A cross-sectional multi centre survey across Pakistan

Competency Assessment on Gram Stain Examination and Interpretation Among Medical Laboratory Professionals Working in Selected Hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Laboratory test results are the cornerstone for patient diagnosis and treatment. Gram staining is a classic laboratory test method used to differentiate between bacteria. Competence assessment can help identify gaps and provide suggestions to academics, researchers, and policymakers to address competency gaps. In Ethiopia, there is no evidence of competency assessment by medical laboratory professionals using the Gram-staining technique. To assess the competency of medical laboratory professionals on Gram stain examination and interpretation in selected hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the competency of medical laboratory professionals on Gram stain examination and interpretation from September 2015 to December 2017. Of 190 participants, 55 (28.9%) participants scored low knowledge, 131 (68.9%) scored medium knowledge, and only 4 (2.1%) respondents scored high knowledge. From the study variables, education level, supervision by regional or federal government bodies, and training about Gram staining were significantly associated with the knowledge level of study participants. Forty eight (25.3%), 78 (41%), and 64 (33.7%) participants scored low, medium, and high skill level, respectively, from a total of 190 participants. From skill level analysis, hospital type, microscope type, and availability of health information resources were significantly associated with skill levels. There were 44 observations (4%) with major errors and 321 observations (28%) with very major errors from all 1140 observations. Of all observations, 321 (28.2%) reported without grading, 39 observations (3.4%) reported gram-positive bacteria as gram-negative bacteria, and 15 observations (1.4%) reported gram-negative bacteria as gram-positive bacteria. The current study found that most medical laboratory professionals work without supervision or refresher training in Gram stain examination and interpretation. Hence, medical laboratory professionals' knowledge and skill levels are unsatisfactory. Regular competence assessments, training, and follow-up are necessary to improve the professional competence in medical laboratories.

Examining the health and functioning status of medical laboratory professionals in Ontario, Canada: an exploratory study during the COVID-19 pandemic

ObjectivesThis study aims to explore the overall and specific aspects of the functioning of medical laboratory professionals (MLPs) in Ontario, Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic.DesignA cross-sectional analysis where a questionnaire...

Leading medical laboratory professionals toward change readiness: a correlational study.

To remain effective in the dynamic health care landscape, the laboratory must embrace the continuous improvement mindset to support a culture of change, and leadership must facilitate the change process, mitigating perceived barriers of change readiness in followers. This quantitative study was designed to determine whether there is an association between leadership style (Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire [MLQ]) and change readiness (3-component model [TCM] commitment to change/Employee Commitment Survey, and whether leadership style predicts change readiness. Laboratory professionals (n = 718) were recruited through national societies to complete a combined MLQ-TCM survey instrument. Multivariate analysis of variance, Pearson correlations, and multiple regression analyses were performed. A significant correlation between leadership style and change readiness (transformational leadership [TL] and affective commitment to change, r(716) = .12, P = .002; passive-avoidant behavior and continuance commitment to change, r(716) = .25, P < .001) and between leadership style and leadership outcomes (TL and effectiveness, r(716) = .90, P < .001) was identified. Transformational leadership was a significant predictor of change readiness (β = .17, P < .05). It is recommended that laboratory leaders use transformational leadership or situational leadership to improve followers' affective commitment to change and reduce followers' continuance commitment to change, thus improving commitment to continuous improvement. Leaders should also limit passive-avoidant behavior.

Self-reported continuing professional development needs of medical laboratory professionals in Ghana

BackgroundBecause of the essential nature of the work of medical laboratory professionals, continuing development in knowledge and skills is indispensable. The study aimed at identifying and prioritizing the development and training needs of medical laboratory professionals in Ghana. This is expected to help in developing focused continuing professional development (CPD) that meets the needs of practitioners as well as the changing medical trends.MethodsAn online cross-sectional survey in February 2022 using a structured questionnaire was conducted. Respondents were asked questions that collected demographic and work-related data about them, their participation, preference, and challenges in being part of CPDs. Finally, a list of topics based on (i) quality management systems, (ii) technical competence, (iii) laboratory management, leadership, and coaching, (iv) pathophysiology, and (iv) data interpretation and research were asked with the option to rate them on a 3-point scale (most, moderate, and least) in order of importance.ResultsA total of 316 medical laboratory professionals participated in the study. Overall, the most frequently selected topics for training based on domains for CPD training and ranking as most important were (i) quality management systems, (mean = 80.59 ± 9.024; 95% CI = 73.04–88.13); (ii) pathophysiology, data interpretation, and research (mean = 78.0 ± 6.973; 95% CI = 73.97–82.03); (iii) technical competence (mean = 73.97 ± 10.65; 95% CI = 66.35–81.59); and (iv) laboratory management, leadership, and coaching (mean = 72.82 ± 9.719; 95% CI = 67.44–78.2). The factors affecting the choice of training needs included the medical laboratory professionals’ current place of work, years in service, the reason for attending CPD activities, the period for attending the last CPD, being in a supervisory role, and the number of staff being supervised. Face-to-face presentations, training workshops, and hands-on workshops were the most preferred modes of CPD delivery with financial implications and workload/time constraints being the main challenges impeding CPD participation.ConclusionThe identified needs will help in developing CPD programs that address what medical laboratory professionals prioritize as training needs. Stakeholders should incorporate these training needs into future programs and address the challenges highlighted in this study to have more relevant training for medical laboratory professionals.

Continuing professional development (CPD) training needs assessment for medical laboratory professionals in Ethiopia

BackgroundContinuing professional development (CPD) is required for health workers in practice to update knowledge and skills regularly to match the changing complexity of healthcare needs. The objective of this study was to identify the training needs of Medical Laboratory professionals in Ethiopia.MethodsA total of 457 medical laboratory professionals from five regions and two city administrations were involved in the study. Data were collected from August 02 to 21, 2021 with structured self-administered online tool with five-point Likert scale. The tool had consent, demography, cross-cutting issues, and main activity area specific to medical laboratory.ResultsMajority of the participants were male (80.1%). Participants from Amhara region 110 (24.1%) were the largest groups in the survey followed by Oromia 105 (23%) and Addis Ababa 101 (22.1%). The study participants comprised 54.7% with a bachelor’s degree, 31.3% with a diploma (associate degree), and 14% with a master’s degree. The participants had varying years of service, ranging from less than one year to over 10 years of experience. Most of the participants work as generalists (24.1%) followed by working in microbiology (17.5%) and parasitology (16%). The majority (96.9%) were working in a public sector or training institutions and the rest were employed in the private sector. Our study showed that the three most important topics selected for training in the cross-cutting health issues were health and emerging technology, computer skills and medico-legal issues. Topics under microbiology, clinical chemistry and molecular diagnostics were selected as the most preferred technical areas for training. Participants have also selected priority topics under research skill and pathophysiology. When the laboratory specific issues were regrouped based on areas of application as technical competence, research skill and pathophysiology, thirteen topics under technical competence, four topics under research skill and three topics under pathophysiology were picked as priority areas.ConclusionIn conclusion, our study identified that CPD programs should focus on topics that address technical competence in microbiology, clinical chemistry and molecular diagnostics. Additionally competencies in research skill and updating knowledge in pathophysiology should also receive due attention in designing trainings.

The Caduceus &amp; Medical Laboratory Professionals - The Significance of Professional Identity!

The Caduceus &amp; Medical Laboratory Professionals - The Significance of Professional Identity!

Candor in medical laboratory management “Quality is doing the right thing and making things right”

The practice of medicine in the modern era is exclusively evidence based, focuses on justifiable laboratory reports contributing effective and opportune patient management. For many years, clinical laboratories have picked up astounding significance in medical care services. Laboratory investigations are essential for medical diagnosis in patient care as well as medical research. Reliability of laboratory data/report is therefore of paramount importance. Good Clinical Laboratory Practices (GCLP) is essential to be implemented in the field of medical research and health care services to ensure reliability of laboratory data. Medical Laboratory Professionals endorse the decency, decorum, honour, morality, and self-respect of the profession and maintain a integrity, competence, reputation of honesty, authenticity, and accuracy. All laboratories engaged in testing of biological samples need to establish confidence in the quality and reliability of the results of these tests. In the current time, ethical concerns exist everywhere whether it is a medical field or life science. Medicine, at the center of which is the sick and dying man, has developed humanism and the morality of pity for the afflicted "Noli noceri",(First do no harm)"Salus aegroti - supreme lex"( let the welfare of the people be the supreme law ). It coincides with the motto of the World Academy of Medical Sciences mission. "Dedication to duty in a mission for mankind".

"Healthcare: Severe Shortages of Qualified Medical Laboratory Professionals"

"Healthcare: Severe Shortages of Qualified Medical Laboratory Professionals"

Identifying Overused Lab Tests in Hospital Settings: A Delphi Study

&#x0D; Unnecessary lab testing may lead to inaccurate diagnoses, inappropriate treatment or further testing, and increased strain on our health care system, and can expose patients to potential harm.&#x0D; To identify lab tests that could be considered by Choosing Wisely Canada’s Using Labs Wisely program, we convened a panel of experts that included physicians, medical laboratory professionals, patients, and decision-makers from across Canada. Our objective was to prioritize a list of high-volume laboratory tests that are often ordered unnecessarily in hospital settings.&#x0D; Through a consensus-generating process, the expert panel prioritized 7 lab tests as candidates for reduction or elimination in hospital settings. These were 25-hydroxy vitamin D testing, vitamin B12 testing, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) testing, free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) testing, international normalized ratio (INR) testing, and amylase testing.&#x0D;

The mental health of laboratory and rehabilitation specialists during COVID-19: A rapid review.

Healthcare workers have experienced considerable stress and burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these healthcare workers are medical laboratory professionals and rehabilitation specialists, specifically, occupational therapists, and physical therapists, who all perform critical services for the functioning of a healthcare system. This rapid review examined the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of medical laboratory professionals (MLPs), occupational therapists (OTs) and physical therapists (PTs) and identified gaps in the research necessary to understand the impact of the pandemic on these healthcare workers. We systematically searched "mental health" among MLPs, OTs and PTs using three databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and CINAHL). Our search yielded 8887 articles, 16 of which met our criteria. Our results revealed poor mental health among all occupational groups, including burnout, depression, and anxiety. Notably, MLPs reported feeling forgotten and unappreciated compared to other healthcare groups. In general, there is a dearth of literature on the mental health of these occupational groups before and during the pandemic; therefore, unique stressors are not yet uncovered. Our results highlight poor mental health outcomes for these occupational groups despite the dearth of research. In addition to more research among these groups, we recommend that policymakers focus on improving workplace cultures and embed more intrinsic incentives to improve job retention and reduce staff shortage. In future emergencies, providing timely and accurate health information to healthcare workers is imperative, which could also help reduce poor mental health outcomes.

Factors Associated with Job Satisfaction in Medical Laboratory Professionals during the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Exploratory Study in Ontario, Canada.

Job satisfaction has been widely studied across several healthcare disciplines and is correlated with important outcomes such as job performance and employee mental health. However, there is limited research on job satisfaction among medical laboratory professionals (MLPs), a key healthcare group that aids in diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. The objective of this study is to examine the demographic and psychosocial factors associated with job satisfaction for MLPs in Ontario, Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey was administered to medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) and medical laboratory technicians/assistants (MLT/As) in Ontario, Canada. The survey included demographic questions and items from the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire, third edition. Binary logistic regressions were used to examine the association between job satisfaction and demographic variables and psychosocial work factors. There were 688 MLPs included in the analytic sample (72.12% response rate). Having a higher sense of community at work was correlated with higher job satisfaction in both MLT (OR = 2.22, 95% CI: 1.07-4.77) and MLT/A (OR = 3.85, 95% CI: 1.12-14.06). In addition, having higher stress was correlated with lower job satisfaction in both MLT (OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.18-0.57) and MLT/A (OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.10-0.66). This study provides preliminary evidence on factors associated with job satisfaction in MLT and MLT/A. The findings can be used to support organizational practices and policies to improve psychosocial work factors.

Integrating Transgender Medicine Curriculum in Medical Laboratory Sciences

Abstract Introduction/Objective Transgender, non-binary, and other gender-diverse individuals experience poor health outcomes as a result of discrimination in health care settings. In order to develop a competent and knowledgeable workforce, a curriculum that will promote the understanding of the health needs of patients with gender incongruence is imperative. Developing a curriculum and its integration into medical laboratory science will increase competency and develop a knowledgeable and culturally-competent workforce of medical laboratory professionals. Methods/Case Report To increase the competency of medical laboratory professionals, a 2-part training program will be developed to help address medical laboratory professionals' healthcare encounters with persons who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI). The curriculum developed will help learners understand the effects of gender-affirming care as it relates to laboratory medicine. Curriculum Outline Sex and Gender Orientation Historical Perspectives in Transgender Health Epidemiology and Health Outcomes of Transgender Patients Transgender Medicine Transgender Medicine in Medical Laboratory Sciences. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) NA Conclusion Future considerations related to the development of a curriculum to understand the effects of transgender medicine in medical laboratory sciences will include Increased awareness of transgender medicine for all levels of laboratory staff. Ability to understand the needs of the patient population and be patient advocates to improve health outcomes. Understand the physiologic effects of gender-affirming care and its impact on medical lab tests. Determine inadequacies in an institution and help develop processes to help improve data collection important to understand the health care needs of demographic. Update the knowledge base of practitioners to further enhance laboratory services and promote healthcare equity.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Training Need Assessment for Medical Laboratory Professionals in Ethiopia

Abstract Introduction/Objective Continuing professional development (CPD) is required for health workers in practice to update knowledge and skills regularly to match the changing complexity of healthcare needs. The objective of this study was to identify the training needs of Medical Laboratory professionals in Ethiopia. Methods/Case Report A total of 457 Medical Laboratory professionals from five region and two city administrations were involved in the study. Data was collected from August 02 to 21, 2021 with structured self-administered online tool with five-point Likert scale. The tool had consent, demography, cross-cutting issues, and main activity area specific to medical laboratory. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) Majority of the participants were male (80.1%). Participants from Amhara region 110 (24.1%) were the largest groups in the survey followed by Oromia 105(23%) and Addis Ababa 101(22.1%). The study participants comprised of 54.7% with a Bachelor degree, 31.3% with a diploma (Associate degree), and 14% with a Master’s degree. The participants had varying years of service, ranging from less than one year to over 10 years of experience. Most of the participants work as generalists (24.1%) followed by working in microbiology (17.5%) and Parasitology (16%). The majority (96.9%) was working in a public sector or training institutions and the rest were employed in the private sector. Our study showed that the three most important topics selected for training in the cross cutting health issues were health and emerging technology, computer skills and medico-legal issues. Topics under microbiology, clinical chemistry and molecular diagnostics were selected as the most preferred technical areas for training. Participants have also selected topics under research skill and pathophysiology. When the laboratory specific issues were regrouped based on areas of application as technical competence, research skill and pathophysiology, thirteen topics under technical competence, four topics under research skill and three topics under pathophysiology were picked as priority areas. Conclusion In conclusion, our study identified that CPD programs should focus on topics that address technical competence in microbiology, clinical chemistry and molecular diagnostics. Additionally competencies in research skill and updating knowledge in pathophysiology should also receive due attention in designing trainings.

Thermal Shock Viral RNA Release in COVID-19 Testing

Abstract Introduction/Objective The public health emergency of the COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the crucial role of medical laboratory professionals and scientists in molecular diagnostics laboratories to ensure success in infection control strategies. The demand for laboratory testing using nucleic acid amplification tests to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA imposed strains in laboratory supplies. Here, we explored an alternative cost-effective solution that will simplify the pre-PCR steps by using a simple heating method to release viral RNA. Methods/Case Report Samples tested using the reference automated extraction method were used:100 samples identified as positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and 500 samples tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA were used for the study and sorted with equal distribution according to Ct values of (a) &amp;lt;20, (b) 20–30, and (c) &amp;gt;30.100 ul from swab preserved in Universal Transport Medium was treated with 30 μg of proteinase K, and another set was tested without proteinase K pre-treatment. All samples with or without proteinase K were diluted to minimize PCR inhibitors. The thermal shock protocol was set at (98°C, 5 minutes; 4°C, 2 minutes) and screened for purity. Performance and method verification studies were performed. Internal extraction, positive template, and no template controls were markers used for testing quality. The experimental study was performed by qualified testing personnel and all under the same experimental conditions. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) The Ct values from the thermal shock RNA release were compared to the automated extraction method and statistically analyzed.The criteria for acceptability for validation of this new RNA extraction proceeding were set to 100% concordance compared to the commercial kit using an automated extraction. PCR efficiency was at 98% and a slope of -3.3. Within run precision of 2% and limits of detection from 200 to 20,000 copies/uL The method 100% (50/50) concordance on samples previously identified as negative by automated methods and identified 86% (86/100) with a mean difference of 3 Ct. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the thermal shock treatment of nasopharyngeal swabs in viral transport media can successfully extract viral nucleic acid for nucleic acid amplification and is a reasonable alternative for chemical extraction methods when molecular diagnostic laboratories persistently encounter supply chain issues.

Quality improvement program; bioethics and medical relevance for clinical laboratories

To efficiently meet the needs of Evidence-Based Medicine, Medical Laboratory Professionals shall provide verifiable support through constantly growing activities, demonstrating expertise in multiple disciplines including medical biochemistry, cytology, haematology, immunology, endocrinology, microbiology, molecular diagnostics, genetics, and nuclear medicine. This requirement has generated increasing impact of Total Quality Management on performance. Given this situation, last decades have evolved in the three stages of the analytical process in accordance with ISO / IEC 15189 covering quality comprehensively, including ISO/IEC 17043 for Proficiency Testing Providers. In order to achieve the highest level of quality medical laboratories must work on the basis of the Code of Ethics of the Pan American Health Organization which significantly emphasizes combating “dichotomy” that shall be considered as illegitimate paybacks that inevitably harm patients and other customers. In the Latin American Association of Medical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine we are committed to continuously working with improving the quality of Latin American Medical Laboratories. Once we understood this and took on the task to provide an instrument of international standard and particularly tailored to fulfil the needs and possibilities of our region. Indeed, we proceeded to consult with members of with a proposal that was overwhelmingly accepted to carry it forward. This is how PROMECAL Quality Improvement Program was established to improve performance of Latin American Medical Laboratories. A pro bono and voluntary programs for all laboratories wishing to participate can do so without cost problems inherent in programs Accreditation and Certification. The fundamental of this program is that it provides to be treated on the basis of the principles of ethics, suitability, competence and medical relevance for what can only be carried out between pairs exclusively, i.e., only between authentic medical laboratory professionals.

Activities of Microscopy and Pathology cause the most musculoskeletal discomfort for medical laboratory professionals - Results from a detailed ergonomic analysis

Medical Laboratory Professionals (MLP) work for long hours in awkward postures. The objective of this study was to analyse the working postures of these professionals in different laboratory tasks and report Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs). One twenty MLPs were evaluated at their workstation with the extended version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (E-NMQ) and the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). The 5 work tasks were biochemistry, deskwork, microbiology, microscopy, and pathology. Among them, biochemistry and deskwork reported the least MSDs. Microscopy had the highest prevalence of MSDs (back = 17.5%, neck = 16.6%) followed by pathology (back = 9.16%, neck = 7.5%) and microbiology task (back = 12.5%, neck = 7.5%) Professionals who performed microscopy and pathology tasks were prevented from performing routine work at home (10.83%). Medication's consumption was highest among the microscopy task group (10.83%). The work tasks were significantly associated with the REBA posture score (p = 0.022). The posture score was higher among pathology and microbiology and microscopy tasks indicating a higher risk for MSDs among the professionals performing these laboratory tasks. Thus, Biochemistry and deskwork tasks had a lower posture score and lower MSDs while pathology, microbiology, and microscopy tasks had higher scores and higher MSDs.