A TECHNICAL REPORT ON

STUDENT INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE

SCHEME (S.I.W.E.S)

UNDERTAKING AT
BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAl MAKURDI

BSUTH

BY

XXXXXX
BSU/SC/MCB/17/44817
B.Sc. MICROBIOLOGY

SUBMITTED TO DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

FACULTY OF SCIENCES
BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY MAKURDI

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE AWARD OF

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE (B. SC) DEGREE IN
MICROBIOLOGY

FEBRUARY 2021

1
 CERTIFICATION

I hereby certify that this report is written by xxxxxxxxxxxxx with the matriculation
number BSU/SC/MCB/17/44817 and is detailed and accurate of his six (6) months
siwes experience at BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL

MR. PATRICK ODE DATE/SIGNATURE

SUPERVISOR

Ms LAURA .N UTUME DATE/SIGNATURE

SIWES COORDINATOR

Dr. DATE/SIGNATURE

H.O.D OF DEPARTMENT

2
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First of all, I give all Honor and Glory to almighty God, the creator of all things. A
lot of people have been instrumental to this work prominently is my ever supportive
parents, ChiefAleduInnocent and Mrs. Aledu Rose for always being there for me,
encouraging and supporting me all the way.

My esteemed supervisor Mr. Patrick Ode for his tireless effort and the ample
opportunity, privilege and honor given me to embark on this SIWES programme.
Secondly, I want to acknowledge my H.O.D Prof.Atu for his hard work and dedication to
duties.

Furthermore, I must not forget my able and ever active SIWES coordinator
Ms. L.N UTUME for her discipline, encouragement, love above all guidance
towards making my life better for the glory ahead.
Others on my support line are some of the Staff of the Benue State
University Teaching Hospital Makurdi Mr. AGEJE ISAAC and Dr. ABAHfor
helping me when I had challenges.

3
 Table of Contents
Cover Page
Certification
Acknowledgement
Table of Contents
Summary

Chapter One
1.1 Brief History Of SIWES
1.2 Overview of BSUTH
1.2.1 Objectives (Mission/Vision ) of (BSUTH)
1.3 Leadership of BUTH
1.4 Organogram

Chapter Two
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Laboratory sections and various tests performed
2.2.1 Reception and Collection
2.2.2 Media preparation and sterilization
2.2.4 Serology
2.2.4.1HBsAg test for Hp., VIBL Test for Sphilis using strips.
2.2.4.2 Widal Test.
2.2.4.3Retroviral Screening Test
2.2.5 Bacteriology
2.2.5.1 Urine Culture
2.2.5.2 Stool Culture
2.2.5.3 Gram Staining
2.2.6 Phlebotomy

Chapter Three
3.0 Benue State University Teaching Hospital
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Executive Summary
3.3 Business Structure
3.4 Job roles and responsibilities
3.5Swot Analysis
3.6 Market Analysis
3.7 Sales and Marketing Strategy

4
Chapter Four
4.1 Conclusion
4.2 Learning Challenges
4.3 Recommendations

References
Appendix

5
 SUMMMARY

1.3 A report of the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES)

December-15th May 2020. It comprises of the work done in Microbiology
AT department covering the six units where tests such as Retro Viral Screening
Test (RVST), Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg), Microscopy, and sensitivity
tests were carried out and culture media such as MacConkey agar were prepared
and used. Staining techniques like Gram staining were also practiced. All the
above tests are carried out using set of equipment such as incubators, autoclaves
and safety cabinets. Conclusions and recommendations were also made.

6
 CHAPTER ONE

1.1 BRIEF HISTORY OF SIWES

The S.I.W.E.S. was launched in 1973 by the Industrial Training Fund (I.T.F) as a
programme designed to impart the undergraduate of the nation’s tertiary institutions studying
various professional courses with the practical methods of performing professional functions
to real life situations on site, in the office or even the factory and how they apply themselves
mentally, intellectually and physically in relation to what they have been taught in the
classrooms theoretically. It works with the following professional bodies to function
effectively across the tertiary institutions nationwide. These are the Nigeria University
Commission (N.U.C), National Board for Technical Education (N.B.T.E.) and the National
Commission for Colleges of Education (N.C.C.E.). Thus, equipping the students with the
necessary skills and technical knowledge to make them highly competitive and professional
individuals in the Labour Market

SCOPE
The scheme as conducted by the Industrial Training Fund (I.T.F) through their
representative liaison units and offices situated within the various institution and in major
cities or towns in Nigeria with the necessary industrial rudiments needed to corroborate,
practicalize and then actualize the required technical knowledge. The Industrial Training
experience not only puts them in real life situations buts also exposes their practical
knowledge of the course of study, consequently perfecting this knowledge thereby producing
very competent and versatile professionals.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE OF S.I.W.E.S

The aim of S.I.W.E.S is to bridge the gap between the level of knowledge acquired in
tertiary institutions and the practical application of such knowledge in the field of work.
The Objectives are:
 To provide an avenue for students in industries of higher learning to acquire industrial
skills and experience in their course of study.
 To prepare students for the work situations they are to meet after graduation.
 To expose students to work methods and techniques in handling equipment and machinery
that may not available in the educational institution.
 To make transition from school to the world of work easier and enhance students contact
for later job placements.
 To improve student’s interpersonal relationship with others in their field.
 To prove students an opportunity to apply his/her knowledge in real work situation, thereby
bridging the gap between college work and actual practice.

1.2 Overview of Benue State University Teaching Hospital

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 The BSUTH project started sometimes in the year 2008 with the
management board inaugurated on 27 August, 2008 by the executive governor of
th

Benue state, Rt. Hon. Dr. Gabriel TorwuaSuswam with Prof. Peter O.
Obekpaaschairman. The hospital was officially commissioned by the president of
the federal republic of Nigeria on 9 March and began services officially on
th

26 March 2012. BSUTH is the first teaching hospital of a state university in the
th

northern part ofNigeria,situated in the southern part of North central Nigeria.

1.2.1 Objectives of BSUTH

Vision of BSUTH
To be a leading tertiary health care institution applying modern technology
in research, teaching and the management of patients, and the preferred
environment for all categories of health care workers seeking fulfillment of
theirprofessional dreams.

Mission of BSUTH
To provide excellent, relevant and affordable tertiary health care services to
the people of Benue state in particular and Nigeria in general, with conducive
environment for research and training of healthcare professionals for the
improvement of the health of the people and advancement of health related
knowledge.

1.2.2 LEADERSHIP OF BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL

The teaching hospital is headed by the Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof.
Terrumun Z. Swende, with two main directorates: directorates of clinical services
headed by the Chairman Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Prof. Olusayo O.
Alao, and directorates of Administration Headed by Mr. TekaaLuga.

8
 1.4 BSUTH Organogram

Chief Medical Director

General Manager

Finance Medical Doctors Services

Accounti Billing Nurses Pediatrics Scanning X-ray

ng Office Office Station Departmen Departme Departmen
t

Theatre Amenity ward Routine

laboratory

9
 CHAPTER TWO

2.1INTRODUCTION
During my industrial training at Medical microbiology laboratory of the
Benue state university Teaching Hospital which is one of the active areas of
pathology department is a diagnostic and research laboratory, aimed at carrying out
research work and diagnostic analysis. The laboratory comprises of four major
departments based on the kind of activities carried out in each. The four
departments identified during the period of my industrial training are as follows;
 The Medical microbiology laboratory
 The Chemical pathology laboratory department
 The Histopathology laboratory department
 The Heamatology laboratory department
I was posted only to the medical microbiology laboratory because am
studying microbiology as a course. I helped in blood sample collection,
registering of patients and I carried out some tests. This report is based on the
experience I had in the medical microbiology laboratory.

Test request are sent from the Doctor when disease symptoms are
recognized through medical history and physical examination, considered to
presumptive, set in. Culture and diagnostic techniques in the medical microbiology
laboratory provide confirmed diagnosis for effective, efficient and correct
treatment. After the test, are carried out, the results are sent back to the doctors.
The medical microbiology laboratory is involved in running tests for the detection
of disease such as typhoid, tuberculosis, syphilis, malaria parasite, intestinal and
urinary tract infections and abnormalities in men like oligospermia (low sperm
count), microscopy, culturing and sensitivity test etc. In the medical microbiology
laboratory, Agar plate are also prepared for various culture purposes, for example,
Macconkey Agar for the detection and isolation of micro-organisms.

10
2.2 THE LABORATORY SECTIONS AND VARIOUS TESTS PERFORMED

2.2.1 RECEPTIONIST /COLLECTION SECTION:

This is the unit where patients are received and attended to regarding to the
investigation written on their laboratory request forms by the doctor. Activities
such as collection of clinical specimens and issuing of laboratory result forms are
carried out in this section.

2.2.2 MEDIA AND STERILIZATION

1. CLED Agar (Cysteine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient): is a non-selective differential

plating medium for the growth and enumeration of urinary tract microorganism.
Preparation: 36.0g of medium is suspended in one liter of distilled water, slowly
heated and frequently stirred.Boiled for a minute and sterilized at 121 OC for 15minutes
and poured into Petri dishes. Plates were inverted when solidified for storage purposes
and to avoid moisture

2. MacConkey Agar. Most commonly used for enterobacteriaceae. It contains agar,

peptone, sodium chloride, bile salt, lactose and neutral red. It is a selective and
indicator medium:
a) Selective: as bile salt does not inhibit the growth of enterobactericeae but inhibits
growth of many other bacteria.
b) Indicator: medium as the colonies of bacteria that ferment lactose take a pink
colour due to production of acid. Acid turns the indicator neutral red to pink. These
bacteria are called 'lactose fermenter', e.g. Escherichia coll. Colourless colony
indicates that lactose is not fermented, i.e. the bacterium is non-lactose fermenter,
e.g. Salmonella. Shigella, Vibrio.
Preparation: 50g of the Agar was suspended and measured into one liter of
purified water and mixed thoroughly and was heated with frequent agitation, then
boiled for one minute to completely dissolve the powder. The Agar was autoclaved
at 121OC for 15minutes.

3. Chocolate Agar or Heated Blood agar. Prepared by heating blood agar. It is used for
culture of pneumococcus, gonococcus, meningococcus and Haemophilus. Heating the
blood inactivates inhibitor of growths.
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 Preparation: 2litres of distilled water was added to 144g of agar powder. Autoclaving
was done at 121OC for 15minutes and cooled till 45OC then 5% of defribrinated blood
was added. Heated slowly and evenly to 65OC, cooled till 45OC and poured into plates

4. Blood Agar. Most commonly used medium. 5-10% defibrinated sheep blood is added
to melted agar at 45-50°C. Blood acts as an enrichment material and also as an
indicator. Certain bacteria when grown in blood agar produce haemolysis around their
colonies. Certain bacteria produce no haemolysis. Types of changes:
5. Nutrient Broth. 500 g meat, e.g. ox heart is minced and mixed with 1 litre water. 10g
peptone and 5 g sodium chloride are added, pH is adjusted to 7.3. Uses: (1) As a basal
media for the preparation of other media, (2) To study soluble products of bacteria.

DISPOSAL

Once the Petri dishes have been taped shut, they should not be opened again. All
microorganisms grown during the experiment should be killed before discarding. The
best way to dispose of bacterial cultures is to pressure sterilize them in a heat stable
biohazard bag. If autoclaves or pressure cookers are not available or large enough to
make this convenient, an alternative is to bleach the plates. Saturate the plates with a
20% or "1 in 5" household bleach solution (in other words, 1part bleach and 4 parts
water). Let them sit and soak overnight in the bleach solution before disposing of them.
Please note that the bleach solution is corrosive and needs to be thoroughly removed
afterwards. In addition, the plates can be incinerated if access to an incinerator is
available.

PRECAUTIONS TAKEN WHEN PREPARING MEDIUM

Do not talk when pouring medium on plates and when culturing the sample on plates to
avoid contaminants as a result of unwanted bacterial or enzymes through saliva.
The degree at which we incubate any cultured sample is always at 37c to avoid the
death of the microorganism.

2.2.3 CHEST CLINIC

This lab deals with the diagnosis, treatment and follows up of tuberculosis.

The tests carried out in this lab are:

 GeneXpert MTB/RIF
 Mantoux test
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  Sputum staining

2.2.3.1 GeneXpert MTB/RIF Test

GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay is a rapid diagnosis test of Tuberculosis (TB)

and drug resistance. It is aids in diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis. This
system integrates and automates sample processing, nucleic acid
amplification, and detection of the target sequences.

MATERIALS/REAGENTS

 GeneXpertSystemequipped with GX2.1

software/computer/printer/barcode wand-reader and operator manual
(Cepheid Inc, Sunnyvale, USA).
 GeneXpert Cartridge: Single-use disposable XpertMTB/RIF
cartridges
Sample extraction, amplification and detection are all carried out
within this self-contained cartridge.
 Class II biological safety cabinet (BSC)
 Sample reagent (provided in Xpert MTB/RIF kit), 8ml volume pack
per each cartridge. The sample reagent solution is clear, but may
range from colorless to golden yellow.
 Permanent marker pens.
 Sterile (individually packed) disposable transfer pipettes– with single
mark for minimum volume of sample transfer to cartridge (provided
in Xpert MTB/RIF kit).
 Sterile screw-capped specimen collection containers/cups.
 Discard containers for pipettes and sputum containers.

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PROCEDURE

 Label the sample with the same lab number on the form and in the
register.

 Using a plastic disposable pipette, add the sample reagent at 2:1 ratio
to the sputum sample. E.g. 2ml of sample reagent to 1 ml of the
sample
 Replace the lid of sputum cup
 Shake the sputum cup vigorously 20 times then allow to sit for
5minutes.
 Shake 20 times again then allow to sit for another 10 minutes.
 The sputum sample should be liquefied with no visible clumps of
sputum after incubation. Particulate matter may exist that is not part of
the sample.
 Using the disposable pipette, take 2ml of the sample and put into the
cartridge making sure not to touch the barcode, only the side.
 Label theXpert MTB/RIF cartridge with the Laboratory number, as
the same given on the sputum cup. Write with marker pen on the front
side bottom of the cartridge, never on the lid of the cartridge or on
barcode.
 Take it to the GeneXpert system, enter the patient’s information,
insert the cartridge into the machine and run.

Interpretation of GeneXpert results:

Results of GeneXpert should be interpreted along with clinical, radiographic,

and other laboratory findings. The Xpert MTB/RIF assay does not replace
the need for smear with microscopy for acid-fast bacilli, culture for
mycobacteria, and growth-based drug susceptibility testing, in addition to
genotyping for early discovery of outbreaks.

14
 Results from the Xpert MTB/RIF assay indicate whether or not MTBC was
detected in the sample. In some instances, the result is “invalid,” whereby
the test should be repeated.

If MTBC was detected, the results will also state whether resistance to RIF
was:

Detected: Mycobacteria have a high probability of resistance to RIF; should

be confirmed by additional testing. If RIF resistance is confirmed, rapid
molecular testing for drug resistance to both first-line and second-line drugs
should be performed so that an effective treatment regimen can be selected.

Not detected: Mycobacteria are probably susceptible to RIF; All tests that
are positive for MTBC should have growth-based susceptibility testing to
first-line TB drugs.

Indeterminate: the test could not accurately determine if the bacteria are
resistant to RIF. Growth-based susceptibility testing to first-line TB drugs
should be performed.
2.2.4 SEROLOGY SECTION
Tests done in this department are designed to detect the body's response to the
presence of bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic and other conditions which stimulate
detectable antigen-antibody reactions in a test system to aid in the diagnosis of the
patient. Most tests performed in this section are carried out under the principles of
Immunoassay, some of them are; Cold agglutinins (CAG) - specimen must be kept
warm, Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), VDRL, to diagnose syphilis, Pregnancy Testing,
Widal.
2.2.4.1HBs.Ag TEST FOR HEPATITIS, VDRL (VENERAL DISEASES RESEARCH
LABORATORY) TEST FOR SYPHILIS USING STRIPS

 Introduction: HBsAG is a rapid immunochromatographic test for the qualitative detection

of Hepatitis B surface Antigen in human serum/plasma, it can be used for prenatal or
transfusion screening, and during acute infection or chronic carriage of the Hepatitis B
virus. Early detection of infection is essential for rapid initiation of adequate treatment.
VDRL test is a screening test for syphilis. It measures substances called antibodies that
body may produce if it comes in contact with the causative agent of syphilis, which is
called Treponemapalladium.
 Aim: To determine the presence or absence of hepatitis and syphilis in the body system.

15
  Materials: HBsAG Test strips, VDRL test strip EDTA bottle, Centrifuge, clean test
tube
 Specimen: Serum.
 Procedure: The patient blood sample was collected into a plain bottle through
venipuncture. The blood sample was spun in a centrifuge for 5 minutes, after spinning the
serum was separated carefully into a clean test tube by the use of Pasteur pipette and then
test strip was immersed vertically into the serum for 10 minutes. The observation was taken
after 10mins.
Result: Appearance of a line at the Control region and another at the Test
indicates positive result, while an appearance of a line at the Control region only,
indicates negative result. When there is no appearance of any line, means the test
in invalid and as to be redone

2.2.4.2 WIDAL TEST

 Introduction: Typhoid fever is an infectious disease caused by the Salmonella typhi, it is
diagnosed by Widal test which employs an antigen-antibody reaction to screen for the
presence of Salmonella typhi and paratyphi antibodies in the sample serum, the organism is
transmitted by water or food contaminated by faeces of typhoid victims or carriers, that is a
person who harbor it without showing signs and symptoms.
 Aim: To investigate the presence of Salmonella typhi and paratyphi in the serum of patient.
 Principle: Agglutination.
 Materials: Test card/white tiles, Pasteur pipette, centrifuge, antigen kit and stop watch
 Procedure: 3-5ml of blood was collected from the patient through venipuncture into a
plain bottle and the blood was spun at 3000rev per min for 5minutes so as to separate out
the plasma. A dropper was used to carefully drawn the antigen kits and a drop was placed
on each of the test card in pairs of four spots labeled O, OA, OB, OC and H, HA, HB, HC
and a drop of serum was carefully added into the antigen respectively with the aid of
Pasteur pipette and mixed together with the aid of an applicator stick the test card was
rocked gently, the rate of reaction and agglutination was observed at an interval of 30sec,
1min, 2mins, and 5mins
 Result
Reactive: visible agglutination on spot H and others indicate the present of Salmonella
antibodies
Non reactive: no visible agglutination indicates absence of Salmonella antibodies
Widal test: Positive
Highly reactive……………………………….1:320 (agglutination reaction before 60
seconds)
Very reactive……………………………….1:160(agglutination reaction before 120
seconds)
16
 Reactive ………………………………………1:80(agglutination reaction before 180
seconds)
Widal test: Negative
Non significant…………………………………1:40
Non significant………………………………….1:20
Not reactive…………………………………….Nil

2.2.4.3RETROVIRAL TEST
 Introduction: This is the diagnosis for Human Immunodeficiency Virus, an infectious
agent that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), a disease that leaves a
person vulnerable to life threatening infection. HIV transmission occurs when a person is
exposed to body fluids infected with virus, such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions and
breast milk.
 Aim:To investigate the presence of HIV 1 and 2 in patient’s blood
 Materials: Determine kits, Unigold kit, Stat pack Buffer, Plain bottle, pipette
 Specimen used: Serum
 Procedures: The blood sample, collected in a plain bottle was centrifuged at 3000rev/min
to allow separation. The serum was picked with a pipette and two drops was placed on the
sample pad of the determine kit and allowed to penetrate then left for 15min. If result
proves positive, the Unigold kits would be used following the same procedure. After using
Unigold to confirm the result and proves negative the Stat pack kit would be used to as a
confirmer.

 Result: The appearance of a line at the Control region and another at the Test region
indicates a Positive result, while the appearance of a line on the Control region only, and
indicates a Negative result.

2.2.5 BACTERIOLOGY SECTION

2.2.5.1URINE CULTURE

Urine is cultured for the isolation and identification of bacteria contained in urine
for further investigation of infections. The test is done to find and identify germs
(usually bacteria) that may be causing a urinary tract infection (UTI). Urine in the
bladder is normally sterile. It does not contain any bacteria or other organisms
(such as fungi) but bacteria can enter the urethra and cause an infection.

CULTURE

 COLOR: Could be pale-yellow, brown, or milky-white.

 APPEARANCE: Could be Clear/Cloudy.

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MATERIALS: The materials used include the following

 Early morning urine sample.

 Prepared CLED agar and MacConkey agar.

 Autoclave.
 Wire loop.
 Bunsen burner (for aseptic condition).
 Oven.
 Incubator.

PROCEDURE:

The early morning urine sample was mixed by rotating the urine sample
bottle slightly. A wire loop sterilized by the Bunsen burner was used to inoculate a
loop of the urine on the already prepared CLED agar and Macconkey agar and
streaked. The plates were incubated overnight at the temperature of 37 0C in the
incubator.

DAY 1
1. Dry the media plates in an oven for 15 minutes to dry up the moisture.
2. Describe the appearance of the specimen.
3. Report the color of the urine whether clear or cloudy.
4. Wear a face mask to avoid contaminating the culture.
5. Flame the wire loop and allow to, cool.
6. Examine the specimen microscopically.
7. Examine centrifuged fresh urine, if looking for
schistostosomahaematobineggs or cast.
8. Ziehl-Neelsen smears if renal tuberculosis is suspected.
9. Examine centrifuged fresh urine.
10. Dark –field preparation, if Leptospriosis is suspected.
11. Look for bacteria.

18
 12. Report also cells, casts, yeast and parasites.
13. Gram smears, if bacteria or pus cells are seen.
14. Divide the prepared CLED agar and macconkey agar media into four (4)
parts and label the portions.
15.Use a wire loop sterilized by the Bunsen burner to inoculate a loop of the
urine on the already prepared CLED agar and Macconkey agar and streak.
16. Incubate at 370C for 24 hours with the macconkey agar been incubated
aerobically.
DAY 2
1. Examine and report culture.
2. Examine both blood and macconkey agar plates for:
- Escherichia Coli
- ProteusSpecies.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Kiebsiellastrains.
- Staphylococcus saprophytica.
- Enterococci.

3. Perform Sensitivity Testing.

2.2.5.2 STOOL CULTURE

Stool is cultured for the isolation and identification of bacteria contained in stool
for further investigation of infections.
MATERIALS
 Fresh stool sample.
 Prepared MacConkey agar, Salmonella Shigella agar
 Wire loop
 Incubator
 oven

PROCEDURE:
DAY 1
19
 1. Describe the appearance of the specimen.
2. Repeat: colour of the stool specimen.
-Whether stool is formed, semi formed, unformed or fluid.
-Report contents whether stool contains blood mucus, pus worm, tape
worm segments.
3. Culture the specimen
- Inoculate salmonella Shigella agar or macConkeyagar or Deoxycholate
citrate agar and incubate at 370C.
- Inoculate selenite enrichment broth and subculture the following morning
if no growth suggestive of salmonella on salmonella Shigellaor
macConkey agar.
DAY 2
1. Examine and report culture.
- Examine salmonella Shigella or macConkey cultures for salmonella or
Shigellaspecies.
- Differentiate using KIA media or the APIZ test.
- If pathogen is isolated proceed with sensitivity test. If none is isolated,
discard plates and record findings.

OBSERVATION/RESULT:
After 24hour of incubating, growth of microorganisms associated with the
infections investigated would occur on the incubated plate. The bacteria commonly
isolated from stool sample incubated include Salmonella, Shigella, Escherichia
coli.

2.2.5.3 GRAM STAINING

 Introduction: In this section, the staining of bacteria as a means for identification is
done. Bacteria are being identified as Gram-Negative or Positive on the basis of their
cell wall thickness after staining. Gram positive bacteria hold the dye and appear
purple while Gram-Negative bacteria release the dye and appear red.
 Aim: To identify the gram-negative and the gram positive bacteria.
 Apparatus: Stop watch, Normal saline, clean grease free microscopic slide, Gentian
violet, Lugol’s iodine, 95% ethyl alcohol, Neutral red, Microscope, Sterilized
inoculating loop.

20
  Procedure: The organism was isolated and smeared using the sterilized inoculating
loop in a drop of normal saline on a clean grease free microscopic slide. It was left to
Air-dry.
The smear was placed on a staining rack, and was flooded with Gentian violet
solution for 30seconds. It was rinsed with water. The smear was again flooded with
Lugol’s iodine for 30 seconds. It was rinsed with water and the smear was
decolorized with 95% ethyl alcohol for 30 seconds, It was rinsed with water again.
The decolorized smear was counter-stained by flooding with neutral red for 30
second and was rinsed with water. The back of the slide was cleaned with cotton
wool and allowed to Air-dry. The slide was mounted on the microscope after air-
drying and was examined under ×100 immersion objectives. The result was
recorded.
 Sensitivity Test (Result): If the bacteria are gram positive, a positive sensitive disc
is used while a negative sensitive disc is used for gram negative bacteria.A pure
colony was sub-cultured on a Nutrient medium and sensitive disc was picked with
the aid of a sterile forceps, and placed on the medium, then the plate was incubated
for 24 hours at 37OC.The plate was read after 24hours of incubation to observe zone
of inhibition and resistance. Sensitivity test is also done for pathogens that grow on
the media by taking a colony of the organism, streak on the sensitivity agar and add
antibiotics discs and incubate for 24hours at 37OC.

2.2.6 THE PHLEBOTOMY DEPARTMENT

The Phlebotomy procedure facilitates obtaining good quality specimens on the
correct patient for further analysis in the laboratory

IDENTIFICATION OF MATERIALS USED IN THE PHLEBOTOMY AND

USES
1. Personal Protective Equipment
 Phlebotomy Uniform: Serve as protective to the body
 Disposable gloves/Hand Gel: For protection against spillage
2. Needles: Used to make incision
3. Needle holders: For holding needle or also known as venoject
4. Vacutainers, Vacutainer holder or Syringe: Serves as blood drawer
5. Sample bottles according to Order of Draw:
 EDTA (Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid)

21
 Alkaline phosphatase - due to chelation of metallic cofactors which inhibits the
enzyme activity. Potassium and sodium - due to the addition of potassium to
the sample. Calcium and magnesium - these are chelated by the EDTA.
EDTA is also an unsuitable additive for samples requiring bacterial culture,
since the chelation of the divalent cations inhibits the growth of bacteria. EDTA
is sometimes used to prevent cells clumping in fluid samples requiring cell
counts to accompany a cytology evaluation but it does not actually 'fix' the
cells. A sample fixed in formalin or alcohol/ethanol is required for accurate
cytology examination. EDTA is not suitable for samples requiring virus
isolation in cell/tissue culture because it forms a gel when added to the cell
culture medium and this disrupts the cell monolayer.

 Plain (no anticoagulant)

Plain (or clotted) samples are used to provide serum for serology and most
biochemistry or endocrine assays. Serum is plasma without fibrinogen since the
fibrinogen has been used' in the formation of the clot.

 Lithium Heparin
Lithium heparin accelerates the action of antithrombin III which neutralizes
thrombin and thus prevents the formation of fibrin from fibrinogen (clot
formation). This effect makes heparin samples unsuitable for determination of
fibrinogen or clotting factors.
Lithium heparin is a standard anticoagulant used to obtain plasma for
biochemistry analysis. Lithium heparin is the most suitable anticoagulant for
the isolation of viruses in cell/tissue culture. This anticoagulant is not suitable
for haematology as the heparin alters the cell morphology. Whilst measurement
of haemoglobin and blood cell counts can be obtained using this anticoagulant
an accurate white cell differential and morphology comments are not possible.

 Fluoride/Oxalate
Fluoride/oxalate samples are used for glucose (and lactate) determination only.
Sodium fluoride functions by stabilizing the blood cell membrane and
inhibiting the enzyme systems involved in glycolysis, which prevents red blood
cells metabolising any glucose present in the sample. For this reason it is the
only suitable sample for accurate glucose analysis. Fluoride is a potent inhibitor
of many enzymes and the inhibition of glycolysis tends to cause fluid shifts.
Fluoride is a weak anticoagulant on its own, so potassium oxalate (another
powerful enzyme inhibitor) is usually added to supplement its action. Other

22
 plasma or serum samples may be used for glucose analysis ONLY if the
plasma/serum is separated from the cells within 1 hour of sample collection.
Without an antiglycolytic agent, the blood glucose concentration decreases by
approximately 0.56 mmol/l per hour at 25°C.

 Sodium citrate
Sodium citrate is the standard anticoagulant for coagulation assays. Citrate
functions by chelating calcium. The effect is easily reversed by the addition of
calcium to the sample. Other anticoagulants are not suitable for coagulation
assays as they interfere with coagulation factors. Citrate also inhibits ALP,
ALT and interferes with the measurement of phosphate.

23
 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 ALEDU DIAGNOSTIC CENTRE FEASIBILITY STUDIES

3.1 Introduction

A diagnostic center is considered a major support for hospitals all over the
world, which is why it is highly necessary that everything regarding the business
be done right, as a single false result could eventually ruin the reputation of the
diagnostics center.

Even though this might be a lucrative business to start up, there are certain things
that must first be done, such as conducting a thorough study on the business you
intend going into. If you are finding this difficult to achieve, you might then need
to engage the services of a business consultant who has thorough knowledge of the
industry you are about to go into, to take a look at your business concept and
determine if you are likely to make it and thrive against your competitors.

3.2 Executive Summary

Aledu Diagnostics Center is a leading and standard medical diagnostic business

that will be located in Makurdi-Benue State here in Nigeria and will offer
diagnostics services to medical personnel as well as non-medical personnel.

Even though I will be offering major diagnostic services such as clinical pathology,
hematology, ultrasound, CT scan, x-ray services, microbiology, and bio chemistry;
I will also be offering additional services such as consultancy and advisory
services as well as medical support services in order to generate more revenue and
boost the bottom line of our business.

My vision is to ensure that I will be able to serve my local physicians as well as

other clients with diagnosis that is not only fast and accurate but private as well
and also reasonably priced. I intend to ensure that I will not only meet but exceed
the expectation of my customers and become the preferred diagnostics center here
in Benue State.

In my bid to achieve the above vision, I intend to ensure that I get the right
equipment that will be able to run difficult tests accurately. I will also employ a

24
solid business structure that will allow me employ the right amount of
professionals to help me attain my intended objective.

I am in the medical diagnostics services to offer quality service to my clients and to

also favorably compete against my competitors here in Benue State. To achieve
this, I will go the extra mile to invest in only the best equipment as well as
employees to ensure that we keep up to my standard.

I will source for and hire the best employees that are not only capable but have the
necessary experience that would be needed to help me rise from an unknown start-
up to a force to be reckoned with not only here in Benue State but also nationally
as well.

I will ensure that my employees are well paid and have better welfare packages
than their counterparts in similar start-ups such as mine. This will ensure that they
remain motivated and dedicated to ensuring that I achieve all my goals and
objectives.

My Products and Services

At Aledu Diagnostics Center, a leading and standard medical diagnostics center, I

intend to offer diagnostics services to all my customers from my permanent
location here in Makurdi-Benue State.

However, in order to create multiple sources of income in line with my core

diagnostic service I will offer medical support services as well as consultancy and
advisory services. My intention is to ensure that I generate as much revenue as I
can and also maximize profit so as to boost and sustain my bottom line as is
permissible under the laws of Nigeria and within my professional ambition.

Therefore some of the diagnostics as well as other services that I intend to offer at
Aledu Diagnostics Center, are;

 Clinical pathology
 Hematology
 Ultrasound
 CT Scan
 X-ray services
 Microbiology
25
  Bio chemistry
 Consultancy and advisory services
 Medical support services

My Mission and Vision Statement

 My vision is to ensure that I am able to serve my local physicians as well as

other clients with diagnosis that is not only fast and accurate but private as
well and also reasonably priced. I intend to ensure that I will not only meet
but exceed the expectations of my customers and become the preferred
diagnostics center here in Benue State.
 In order to achieve my vision, I intend to get the right equipment that will be
able to run difficult tests that are accurate in nature. I will also employ a
solid business structure that will allow me employ the right amount of
professionals to help me attain my intended objectives and vision.

3.3 My Business Structure

Due to my desire to build and run a standard diagnostics center here in Makurdi-
Benue State, I have therefore ensured that I put in place plans that will make me
get it right from the beginning. I will therefore be going the extra mile to ensure
that I hire only competent and hardworking employees into all the available
positions in my company.

I know how relevant the management team is to any company and so I have gone
through a rigorous process to ensure that I hire and select only those that have the
industry experience and have also seen and identified with my company vision and
objectives and will therefore do all they can to ensure that I am able to achieve my
goals and objectives.

Due also to the fact that I intend to run a diagnostics center business that does not
conform to the norm of other diagnostics businesses, I would be hiring more
employees than is the norm. This is so that I would be able to offer satisfactory
services to all my customers and ensure that I adhere to with all the processes and
plans of the company.

The business structure that I therefore intend to build at Aledu Diagnostics Center
includes;

26
 Chief Executive Officer
 Chief Diagnostician
 Human Resources and Admin Manager
 Phlebotomists
 Lab technician

27
28
29
30
31
  Accountant
 Marketing Executives
 Customer Service Executives
 Cleaner
 Driver
 Security Guard

3.4 JOB ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Chief Executive Officer

 Creates the overall policies and strategies that would ensure the overall
growth of the company
 Sources for capital and draws the budget for the company
32
  Reviews policies by evaluating the success of the company

Chief Diagnostician

 Carries out the final diagnosis based on conducted tests

 Ensures that all tests are carried out following the company’s standard
protocols as well as in line with industry trends
 Supervises all workers under his department

Human Resources and Admin Manager

 Ensures that all the administrative functions of the company operate

smoothly
 Sources for, interviews, hires and conducts orientation for new employees
on behalf of the company
 Appraises the performance of employees as often as possible

Phlebotomists

 In charge of drawing blood at the diagnostic center

 In charge of ensuring proper labeling of the blood samples
 Ensures that the blood is securely stored in preparation for tests and analysis

Lab technician

 Carries out onsite blood tests

 Ensures proper and accurate analysis of blood tests
 Document result and sends to chief diagnostician

Accountant

 Prepares all the financial statements, information and records on behalf of

the company
 Performs financial analysis and also in charge of employees’ payroll
 Conducts internal audit and prepares tax information to submit to tax
authorities

Marketing Executives

33
  Conducts market research in order to determine new market opportunities
for the company
 Creates effective marketing strategies that would generate revenue for the
company
 Conducts direct marketing with clients on behalf of the company

Customer Service Executives

 In charge of answering enquiries and providing information to clients via

phone, physically and online
 Remains updated as regards company policies in order to be able to offer
customers accurate information
 Conducts bookings for clients

Cleaner

 Ensures that the premises is kept clean at all times

 Cleans the restrooms for customers as well as for employees
 Carries out any other duties as determined by the human resources manager

Driver

 Carries out official errands on behalf of the company by dropping off results
in accurate destinations
 Obeys all traffic rules and regulations while on or off duty
 Carries out preventive maintenance on the vehicle as at when due

Security Guard

 Ensures that the perimeter is adequately secured against theft and trespassers
 Monitors incoming and outgoing traffic in order to detect anything that is
out of place
 Patrols the premises during and after work hours

3.5 SWOT ANALYSIS

Due to my intention to run a standard and leading diagnostics center here in

Makurdi-Benue State, I have engaged the services of a reputable and one of the
34
finest business consultants here in Benue State to help look through my business
concept and determine how likely I am to succeed and thrive in this business and
also favorably compete against my competitors.

In view of this, the business consultant was able to point me to my strengths,

weaknesses, the opportunities that are opened to me and also the threats that I will
likely to face here in Benue State and not just in Makurdi. The results therefore of
the critically conducted SWOT analysis for Aledu Diagnostics Center are as
follows;

 Strengths

There are several strengths that are available to me and the major one is the
fact that I am offering a lot of services in addition to my core service. Also, I have
procured the latest equipment that are not only accurate but fast as well in ensuring
that I will not only meet but exceed the expectations of my customers.

I value my customers so well and that is why I have built a solid business
structure filled with professionals that have a high understanding of the business
and will ensure that I am able to attain all my goals and objectives.

 Weaknesses

The fact that I am newly established is a weakness for me as I do not yet

have the necessary staff or even finances to be able to run against already
established and large diagnostics centers. Also, I am not yet known as a brand and
so I would need to engage in massive publicity exercises to enable me become well
known and gather the momentum we need.

 Opportunities

There are several opportunities available to me in this industry as loads of

people require diagnosis on a daily basis. I am also engaging in a market research
that will enable me to be aware of more opportunities available to me in this
business.

 Threats

35
 Every business no matter its nature faces threats either at start-up or while
running the business and my business is not different. I am likely to face threats
from competitors who would be running similar services such as mine and who
would be located around my area of business.

I am also likely to face threats from largely established hospitals where there
is either a diagnostics center or they support a diagnostics center close by. I will
however not deterred by any threats to my business as I have measures in place
that will ensure that I overcome any challenges and threats to our business.

3.6 MARKET ANALYSIS

 Market Trends

It has not been a smooth experience for the diagnostics industry as there
have been many disruptions in the last few years. The industry is getting
consolidated as more of the unorganized settings in the industry are being
organized which is slowly evident as the industry is seeing a CAGR of 18%.

The products and services in the diagnostic industry is broken into different
levels of classification such as laboratory services, magnetic resonance imaging
(mri), diagnostic imaging services, x-ray/radiography imaging, ultrasound imaging,
CT scanning, and other diagnostic services.

My Target Market

When it comes to diagnostic services, there are a whole lot of people that
require the services. However, I cannot restrict my target market to a certain types
of people, which is why I have decided to conduct a market research that will help
me understand and fully know the kind of target market that I would be offering
my services to.

The aim of the market research is also to let me know and understand what
the target market will expect from me and also what I should expect from them so
as to draft the right strategies that would enable me penetrate this target market. In
view of this, it is expected that I am in business to offer diagnostic services to the
following groups of individuals and institutions

 Men

36
  Women
 Children
 Medical Practitioners
 Hospitals
 Clinics

My competitive advantage

My aim of starting Aledu Diagnostics Center is to ensure that I build a

business that will be able to carry out difficult but accurate diagnosis and be the
preferred diagnostic center for local physicians, medical practitioners and other
clients that would be needing my services here in Makurdi-Benue State. With this
in mind, I have set forth strategies that will allow me to favorably compete against
my competitors and give me the advantage I need.

I am going to ensure that I procure the best equipment that are not only accurate
but also fast in ensuring that I will not only meet but exceed the expectations of my
customers here in Benue State.

I know that this industry thrives on privacy and that is one of the structures I have
built into my business concept. I am notable to conducting tests and dispatching
results in a manner that is very private and this is due to the fact that I hold our
customers in high regard and will not seek to break the confidence they have
imposed on me.

It is in this regard that I am careful about the people I have hired to come and work
for me here at Aledu Diagnostics Center. my employees are not only capable and
competent but they are professionals who have experience in this industry and
therefore know how to carry out their tasks with little or no supervision in a way
that will promote the image of the company positively at all times.

I will ensure that my employees are well paid and that they have welfare and
hazard packages that are better than what their counterparts in similar start-ups
such as mine here in Benue State are getting. I will also ensure that my employees
undergo training whenever necessary so as not to only enhance their skills but
make sure that I am at par with the trends in the industry and that the productivity
rate for my diagnostics center is boosted as well.

37
3.7 SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

 Sources of Income

Aledu Diagnostics Center is an already established and leading medical diagnostics

business in the medical support service industry that will ensure that it goes all the
way to provide medical support services such as diagnostics to all its various
customers here in Benue State.

I therefore intend to offer the following services in order to generate revenue at

Aledu Diagnostics Center,

 Clinical pathology
 Hematology
 Ultrasound
 CT Scan
 X-ray services
 Microbiology
 Bio chemistry
 Consultancy and advisory services
 Medical support services

Sales Forecast

The medical diagnostics business is one that will always be a lucrative business not
only because of the support they offer to hospitals but because people will always
have a reason to want to check what is wrong within their bodies either for good or
bad reasons.

My business is located quite close to that of medical practitioners and physicians;

this has placed me in a strategic position that will see me generating enough
revenue and also meeting my profit maximization target within the first eight
months of operations that will help sustain and grow my business.

I have conducted a critical examination of the medical diagnostics sector cum

hospital support service industry in order to analyze my chances of how I am likely
to fare and have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. It should
be noted that the sales projections are based on the information gotten
from verifiable data and assumptions on the field here in Makurdi-Benue State.
38
Below therefore are the sales projections for Aledu Diagnostics Center based on
several assumptions and verifiable data from my current location;

 First Fiscal Year-: N850,000

 Second Fiscal Year-: N1,500,000
 Third Fiscal Year-: N3,000,000

N.B: The above projections were conducted based on what is obtainable in the
industry and on the assumptions that there won’t be the arrival of a major
competitor in the same location as mine and that the hospital close to me will not
intend to run a diagnostics center of its own for the defined period of time. Should
there however be a change in any of these factors within the defined period of
time, it would lead to an increase or decrease in the figures that I have projected.

 Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Marketing is a very important aspect of starting and running a business, and so

before choosing a location for Aledu Diagnostics Center, conducted a thorough
market survey that will allow me understand the market we are going into so that
Iwill not only be able to penetrate the market but also position my business in such
a way as to compete favorably with my competitors not only here in Makurdi but
all over Benue State.

The information and data that I have gathered from the market survey has also
enabled me to structure my business in such a way that will attract the number of
customers that I would need. It has also opened me up to the various opportunities
that abound in the industry and the effective strategies that I can use to help better
position my business and generate more revenue that would boost and grow my
business.

I have for instance engaged the services of a reputable marketing consultant here in
Benue State who understands the market thoroughly and who also has the
necessary industry experience that will help my newly established diagnostics
center business to grow.

Having looked through my business concept, the marketing consultant will help
me develop winning marketing strategies that will allow me gain a huge share of
the available market here in Makurdi as well as all over Benue State.

39
In order for me to continually meet with my corporate sales and marketing goals, I
have empowered my marketing executives to draft effective marketing strategies
for my company. My marketing team has also been empowered to review and
modify existing marketing strategies to ensure that they are in line with helping me
attain my goals and objectives.

The following sales and marketing strategies are what I intend to adopt at Aledu
Diagnostics Center to attain my corporate sales and marketing goals;

 Ensure that I introduce my diagnostics center business to medical

practitioners and physicians, hospitals, clinics and many other stakeholders
in the health industry as well as medical support service industry in Benue
State as well as all over Nigeria.
 Throw a unique and medical themed party to launch my business and
generate the needed interest for my business.
 Ensure that my diagnostics center business is advertised in local newspapers
and in medical magazines as well as on radio and television stations.
 Ensure that my business is listed in yellow pages as well as in popular online
medical directories.
 Use my social media platforms such as Facebook, Google Plus and Linkedin
to market my services.
 Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing.

Publicity and Advertising Strategy

My kind of business thrives well on good publicity and so despite the fact
that I am running a standard and leading diagnostics center business, I will be
engaging in publicity measures that will allow me to compete favorably against my
competitors while allowing me to promote and advertise my brand positively to my
intended target market.

Aledu Diagnostics Center will therefore in this regard be hiring the services
of a publicity consultant who is vastly experienced industry-wise and knows the
environment very well to help me draft effective publicity and advertising
strategies that will help boost the brand of my company and allow me to be firmly
rooted and be the preferred brand for my target market here in Benue State.

Therefore, the platforms that I intend leveraging on to promote and advertise

Aledu Diagnostics Center, are;
40
  Engage in the distribution and pasting of my fliers in strategic locations
 Ensure that I install my billboards in strategic locations all around Benue
State
 Use the internet and other social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter,
Google Plus and Linkedin to vigorously create awareness about my
diagnostics business
 Ensure that I place my adverts in local newspapers, in medical and other
related magazines as well as on radio and television stations
 Position my flexi banners at strategic and conspicuous locations so as to
attract the awareness of my clients
 Attend seminars and medical conferences in other to network and also
increase awareness for my diagnostics business

My Pricing Strategy

Setting a price for services might be difficult to calculate because the rates charged
has to be seen to be affordable to the clients and not too low for the business, so
that it does not run out of business. When it comes to setting the charges for my
different services, a lot of factors will come into play such as what kind of
diagnostics service was done, how in-depth was the diagnosis, what does it cost me
to run the diagnosis, what my overhead costs were and also what my competitors
are setting for same services.

Due to the fact that I am relatively new in this business, I intend to lower my rate
in the first three months so as to attract more customers to my business and also
increase awareness for my diagnostics business and the services I offer. I have
conducted a study to know if I will be operating at a loss during this period, and
the results are that even though I will be generating less revenue than I should, I
would not be running at a loss.

 Payment Options

Aledu Diagnostics Center is a leading and standard medical diagnostics business

that has the paying comfort and convenience of its clients in mind. This is why I
have rolled out several payment options that will suit all my different clients and
whatever preferences that they might have.

The payment options that I will endeavor to make available in all my centers are;

41
  Payment via cash
 Payment via check
 Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
 Payment via online payment portal
 Payment via credit card

The above payment options were carefully chosen by me because I have the
convenience of my customers in mind, not only will it be convenient for my
business as well but there will be no hitches whatsoever.

Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In starting and intending to run a diagnostics center business that is up to standard

and successful, there are certain things that must be in place especially as the
business is a capital intensive one. The bulk of the generated start-up capital for
example will be needed to get the necessary equipment which is expensive, lease a
place, purchase an official vehicle, and pay the salaries of employees with utility
bills for a defined period of time.

The key areas where I would therefore be spending the bulk of my capital on are;

S/N

ITEMS AMOUNT
1. Business Registration N100,000
2. Obtaining of business and medical licenses and
permits, customer, accounting and inventory software
as well as other legal expenses N300,000
3. Cost of hiring a business consultant N1,000,000
4. Insurance coverage (general liability, workers’
compensation, equipment liability, health insurance)
N1,500,000
5. Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening
of Aledu Diagnostics Center as well as for general
N2,000,000
42
 promotional expenses
6. Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of
employees and payment of utility bills)
N67,000,000
7. Cost of leasing a facility for 5 years and carrying out
renovations
N40,000,000
8. Cost of procuring the necessary equipment for start-
up (auto analyzer, scanning machines, EEG, ECG,
blood testing machines, centrifuge, freezer unit, x- N100,000,000
raying machines)
9. Other start-up expenses (latex gloves, needles, N700,000
syringes, portable ice coolers, masks, microscope,
balance)
10. Storage hardware (bins, racks, bottles) N200,000
11. Administrative expenses (furniture, phone, computer,
laser printer, broadband internet connection)
N4,000,000
12. Other necessities (signage, ventilation, security) N500,000
13. Cost of procuring an official vehicle N3,500,000
14. Cost of launching a website N150,000
15 Cost of throwing a party to launch our diagnostics N1,500,000
center
16 Miscellaneous N600,000
TOTAL N223,050,000

From the above analytical breakdown, it is obvious that I would require the
sum ofN223,050,000in order to set up and run a standard and successful
diagnostics center business here in Makurdi-Benue State. It should be noted that
the capital available to me in starting this business will cater majorly to buying the
necessary medical equipment required, leasing a facility for use, purchasing an
official vehicle and also paying for the utility bills and salaries of employees for at
least three months.

Generating Funding/Startup Capital for Aledu Diagnostics Business

43
I have been able to successfully generate the sum of N123,000,000 from the sale
of some of my personal stock. I have approached the bank for a loan facility of
N100,050,000 to be repaid in 10 years at the rate of 3% per annum and my
approval has been granted as all the necessary documents approving the loan has
been signed. I have been told that the amount will be credited to my business
account by the end of the week.

Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

Determining the future of one’s business is very important as this shows

the seriousness of the entrepreneur as regarding his or her business and the plans
for the business to remain long in existence. There are several factors that one
must consider when thinking of ways to sustain and expand a business, such
factors are; the re-investment strategy of the business, the way it treats its
customers and also the business structure it intends to build.

As a business that plans to remain in existence for a very long time,

continually seeking for funds from external sources is not something I desire for
my business because it shows that I am not taking my business as seriously as I
should, and so I have plans in place to ensure that about a certain percentage of
my earnings are but back into my business. This will not only allow me to sustain
my business but suitably expand it as well, as I would be able to boost out bottom
line to the benefit of my business.

Customers are the lifeblood of any business and I understand this fact that
without my customers, not only Iwill likely to not generate sufficient revenue to
cover my overhead expenses, my diagnostics business will also not last for very
long.

This is why I have conducted a thorough survey of the target market that
will allow me understand the kind of market I would be going into and how best
to penetrate this market and capture the attention of my customers. This will also
allow me roll out measures – such as incentives for my customers – that will help
me retain a large part of my target market.

Finally, regardless of whatever vision I might have regarding my company,

or how much expensive equipment I intend acquiring; without building the right
44
business structure, I would eventually be starting a business that will fail. This is
why I am going the extra mile to ensure that I source for and hire capable and
proficient employees to help run my diagnostics business and help achieve all my
intended goals and objectives.

My employees will be made to undergo training when necessary so as to

ensure that their skills are in line with industry demands. Also, Iwill ensure that
my employees are well paid and have the best welfare packages better than what
their counterparts in similar start-ups such as mine are getting.

45
 CHAPTER FOUR

CONCLUSION, CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED AND RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1 CONCLUSION
My six months industrial attachment with Benue State University teaching Hospital
has been one of the most interesting , productive, instructive and educative experience in
my life. Through this training, I have gained new insight and more comprehensive
understanding about the real industrial working condition and practice and also improved
my soft and functional skills.
All these valuable experiences and knowledge that I have gained were not only
acquired through the direct involvement in task but also through other aspects of the
training such as: work observation, supervision, interaction with colleagues, supervisors,
superior and other people related to the field. It also exposed me to some certain things
about medical environment. And from what I have undergone, I am sure that the industrial
training programme has achieved its primary objective.
As a result of the programme, I am now more confident to build my future career
which I have already started with Benue State University teaching Hospital

4.2 CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED

The main problems encountered were getting placement and transportation. It

was quite challenging for me that live in far place to get to the organisation every working
day. I was not given any remuneration or allowance, other problems encountered during
the training was attending to different people with different personalities at the phlebotomy
unit.

4.3 RECOMMENDATION
I recommend that all institutions or bodies involve in Student Industrial Working
Experience Scheme, should provide places for industrial attachment for Student Industrial
Training Fund and also pay some allowances to students and the company should provide
more safety equipments to prevent further environmental and health hazards.
Also, to students that are to undergo the training, I recommend that they should take it
very seriously, because it is one of the most important parts of their studies which will help
them build a very significant and effective meaning in their career pursuit.

46
 REFERENCES

Benue state university Teaching Hospital,s Medical Microbiology Laboratory

manuals and charts
FDA Approves First Nucleic Acid Test (NAT) Systems to Screen Plasma for
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) ,
Jawetz, Melnick and Aldeberg’s, Medical Microbiology, 20th edition.

Keeping Blood Transfusions Safe: FDA's Multi-layered Protections for Donated

Blood". US Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved 12 October 2013.
Monica Cheesbrough, (2002); District Laboratory Practice in Tropical Countries,
Part 2, Second Edition, Co-published by Tropical Health and Butterworth-
Heinenann and Com (Publishers) Ltd. Pp 95 – 199.

Queval CJ, Brosch R, Simeone R (2017). "Mycobacterium tuberculosis". Frontiers

in Microbiology. 8: 2284. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2017.02284. PMC 5703847.
PMID 29218036
Urnovitz H, Sturge J, Gottfried T (1997). "Increased sensitivity of HIV-1 antibody
detection". Nat Med. 3 (11): 1258. doi:10.1038/nm1197-1258. PMID
9359701. S2CID 22007455

47
 APPENDIX

Appendix A

Microscope Figure 1.1

Figure 1.2

Autoclave

Figure 1.3

Incubator

Figure 1.4

48
Hot air oven

Centrifuge

Figure 1.5

49
50