Feedback on final-year medical laboratory students' internship in Haematology and Microbiology, in Bamenda

Background Graduates of medical laboratory programs are experts responsible for conducting clinical laboratory procedures. Currently, the training and education in medical laboratory science (MLS) in Cameroon lack standardized curricula among different educational institutions. Objective This study aimed to assess the internship experiences of final-year MLS students enrolled in various training institutions in Bamenda. Methods The participants consisted of final-year MLS students from various training institutions in Bamenda, recruited into the study using a non-probability sampling technique. Data collection was conducted over a three-month period, from March to May 2023. A well-structured questionnaire was used to collect comprehensive data regarding the students' internship experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the non-parametric statistical test (the Mann-Whitney test) and, the unpaired t-test. Result A total of 420 students consented to participate in this study. Among the participants, 69.05% (290/420) were pursuing their bachelor’s degree while 30.95% (130/420) were pursing the higher national diploma.Averagely 47.14% (198/420) of interns reported that instructions on activities were clearly discussed. The microscope was most frequently operated in the microbiology (95.71%; 402/420) and the hematology (91.43%; 384/420) sections. There were significant differences between observing and performing the procedures in both the Microbiology and hematology sections. Conclusion Students showed decreased motivation evidenced by their limited involvement in observing and performing laboratory techniques. It is recommended to regularly organize pre-internship seminars for proper orientation, ensure teaching laboratories are well-equipped to maximize intern involvement, and conduct daily roll calls with sanctions to ensure consistent participation.