About Critical Values

Critical Values is the go-to resource for the entire laboratory team, providing insight and information on the latest research, information, and issues within pathology and laboratory medicine. The print and online magazine invites submissions on topics including, but not limited to, advocacy, education, technology, global health, workforce, workplace best practices, and leadership.

Critical Values Staff

Molly Strzelecki  Editor 

Martin Tyminski  Creative Director  

Jennifer Brinson  Art Direction and Design 

*This interview has been edited for clarity and length

I chose to become a Medical Laboratory Scientist and to specialize in transfusion medicine because it sits at the intersection of science, patient safety, and teamwork. As an MLS, I translate complex laboratory data into clear answers that guide diagnoses and treatment. I’m motivated by accuracy, reliability, and the knowledge that careful bench work prevents errors and accelerates care.

Blood banking is where that commitment has the most immediate, life‑saving impact. Immunohematology lets me solve high‑stakes puzzles—antibody identification is my favorite test—so patients receive the right product at the right time. In trauma, obstetrics, oncology, and chronic transfusion, our decisions prevent hemolytic reactions, support surgery, and improve outcomes. I value the systems side too: patient blood management, hemovigilance, rare‑donor programs, and red cell genotyping—bringing innovation and stewardship to everyday practice.

Equally important, I’m driven to strengthen our profession globally. Through ASCP BOC advocacy and mentoring underrepresented and international colleagues, I work to expand access to high‑quality training and certification. A stronger, more inclusive laboratory workforce means safer transfusions and better care for every patient. 

What does collaboration with physicians and other healthcare providers mean to you in ensuring the best care for patients?

To me, collaboration is about clinical partnership. In my role as a at Stanford, I don't just "send results"; I consult on complex cases where a patient’s life depends on our ability to find compatible blood.

In difficult cases, especially those involving rare antibodies or trauma, I approach the work with a "zero-error" mindset. When the result has a life-changing impact, the laboratory professional must be the calmest person in the room, relying on rigorous science and the "detective" to ensure that the product we release will heal, not harm. 

What is your favorite test to perform?

My favorite test is antibody identification. It is the ultimate intellectual puzzle in the lab. I am particularly passionate about rare, complex antibodies where initial testing suggests there are no compatible products available. In these high-pressure moments, our work is the only thing standing between a patient and a life-threatening delay in care. Finding that "needle in a haystack," that one rare unit of blood, is the final, essential step that transforms a dangerous, "un-transfusable" situation into a safe, lifesaving transfusion. 

What lessons have you learned through the different leadership or volunteer roles you’ve taken on?

My leadership journey started by pursuing ASCP certification and volunteering. Early in my career, I earned MLS(ASCPⁱ), BB(ASCPⁱ), SBB(ASCPⁱ), and H(ASCPⁱ). Guided by mentors who encouraged me to present, write, and serve, I became an ASCP Ambassador to champion underrepresented and international colleagues. Since 2018, I have represented the MENA (Middle East North Africa) region for the ASCP Board of Certification and serve on the DEI Committee and the Commission on Continuing Professional Development (CCPD), building inclusive pathways that welcome and elevate global professionals. 

Serving on ASCP’s DEI Committee and the Commission on Continuing Professional Development (CCPD) has shown me that representation isn’t a metric—it’s a prerequisite for better patient outcomes. My motivation extends beyond the bench to building a global, inclusive laboratory workforce. 

As an ASCP Ambassador, DEI Committee member, and ASCP BOC Regional Representative for the MENA region, I advocate for underrepresented and international colleagues to be recognized and resourced. Through CCPD and my regional role, I mentor students and professionals to achieve ASCPⁱ certification, align training with practice, and prepare to solve complex cases.