3 Questions with Brittany Teeter, MS, CLS, MLS(ASCP)CM

For Brittany Teeter, MS, CLS, MLS(ASCP)^CM, the never-ending evolution of the laboratory, along with the continual development of new testing methods, and new advancements in technology, aligns perfectly with her dedication to lifelong learning and love of problem-solving and quality improvement. 

Here, Ms. Teeter, assistant professor in the Division of Medical Laboratory Sciences at UT Health San Antonio, shares her thoughts on three questions (and a bonus!) on the laboratory, how she was first introduced to its career possibilities, and more.  

What initially drew you to the field of laboratory medicine and inspired you to pursue it as a career? 

My husband actually told me about the field. He initially planned to pursue an MLS degree when we were in high school, but he is colorblind and chose another path. After my first day of class, I knew this was the right career choice for me. 

Laboratory professionals often collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care. Can you describe a situation where you effectively collaborated with colleagues from different disciplines to optimize patient management?  

I once collaborated with emergency department MDs to shorten exposure testing turnaround times. I learned a lot about the ED workflows and worked with the MDs to develop new workflows to streamline sample delivery to the laboratory and ensure the correct tests were ordered. Through our collaboration, we significantly reduced the turnaround time for exposure testing. 

How did you first get involved with ASCP? What (or perhaps who) pushed you to become a volunteer?  

Tiffany Channer and Stephanie Whitehead initially encouraged me to volunteer, and I'm incredibly grateful for their encouragement. Since then, I've had the opportunity to meet many remarkable laboratory professionals and join several other ASCP committees. Volunteering with ASCP has been rewarding because I can witness the tangible impact of these roles on fellow laboratory professionals and, most importantly, the patients. Now, I actively encourage my MLS students to get involved and volunteer!  

What is something that has surprised you about working in the lab?   
During my first rotation in a microbiology lab, I was surprised at how much my hands hurt after the first day! They were sore! I assumed my feet would hurt, but I was very surprised when my hands were sore.