Medical lab technician interview questions and answers pdf

Read Online Lab Technicians Job Interview Questions And Answers

Show

Downloading Terms And Conditions

  • You must agree all these terms and fill out the forms correctly by providing accurate information.
  • After clicking the below "Download Lab Technicians Interview Questions" button you must have to stay for a couple of seconds to process and complete your request.
  • Content of these documents are copy right protected.
  • On social networking if you are sharing stuff of this site or documents then you have to credit back to us with sharing our link.

Lab Technicians Statistics

Category Name: Medical
Sub Category Is: Lab Technicians Interview Questions
Total Questions: 22
Lab Technicians Interview Guide Visited: 16509 Times
Lab Technicians Interview PDF Uploaded: 8/24/2012
Last PDF Updated: 02/06/2021
Lab Technicians PDF Downloaded: 2450 Time(s)

To help you prepare for your Medical Laboratory Technician interview, here are 30 interview questions and answer examples.

Medical Laboratory Technician was written by and updated on January 22nd, 2019. Learn more here.

Question 1 of 30

Why did you choose to become a medical laboratory technician?

  • How to Answer

  • 1st Answer Example

  • Entry Level

  • Experienced

  • Community Answers

How to Answer

There are so many career options out there. When interviewers ask you questions like this, they are trying to get to know you, what interests you, what drives you. If you had an experience personally that made you choose this field of work, share it with the interviewer.

Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

1st Answer Example

"I have always been interested in the human body and the way things work together. The function of the body is very complex and something I enjoy studying. I felt like working in a medical laboratory would be a great opportunity to study the effects of disease processes on the human body while contributing to caring for others."

Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

Entry Level

"I knew I wanted to do something that would allow me to work closely with people and learn about healthcare related careers. Becoming a medical lab tech was a way for me to become part of the healthcare industry without having to spend a number of years in school. I feel like doing this job will give me an opportunity to learn and grow and also to see if there is a higher degree in this field that I may be interested in pursuing later."

Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

Experienced

"My favorite leader was my supervisor for over ten years, who just retired a couple of years ago. He was the type of leader that lead by example by working hard, following all policies and procedures and keeping an open door to talk at any time on any day. He inspired me to hopefully someday pursue a leadership role in a lab where I can lead the same way as he once did."

List of 30 Medical Laboratory Technician Interview Questions & Answers

  • 1.

    Why did you choose to become a medical laboratory technician?

      How to Answer

      There are so many career options out there. When interviewers ask you questions like this, they are trying to get to know you, what interests you, what drives you. If you had an experience personally that made you choose this field of work, share it with the interviewer.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      1st Answer Example

      "I have always been interested in the human body and the way things work together. The function of the body is very complex and something I enjoy studying. I felt like working in a medical laboratory would be a great opportunity to study the effects of disease processes on the human body while contributing to caring for others."

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Entry Level

      "I knew I wanted to do something that would allow me to work closely with people and learn about healthcare related careers. Becoming a medical lab tech was a way for me to become part of the healthcare industry without having to spend a number of years in school. I feel like doing this job will give me an opportunity to learn and grow and also to see if there is a higher degree in this field that I may be interested in pursuing later."

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Experienced

      "My favorite leader was my supervisor for over ten years, who just retired a couple of years ago. He was the type of leader that lead by example by working hard, following all policies and procedures and keeping an open door to talk at any time on any day. He inspired me to hopefully someday pursue a leadership role in a lab where I can lead the same way as he once did."

      Community Answer

      "I love being in the laboratory, and I am deeply fascinated by the human body. I find it so interesting that biological specimens can give such a great amount of information about a patient's health status.

      I would love to be a part of that process by running tests to provide the necessary information to help a patient get better. I believe this career has many challenges that can help me learn new skills every day, which excites me."

      Written by an Anonymous User

      Medical lab technician interview questions and answers pdf

      Our Professional Interview Coach
      Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

      Excellent response! Well done.

  • 2.

    If you had a team member who constantly seemed to be abandoning his post and leaving unfinished work, how would you handle the situation?

      How to Answer

      Although this is not meant to be a 'trick question,' it is important to remember to answer carefully. The interviewer understands that it takes a team effort to make a lab run efficiently. Further, he knows that if one person does not fulfill his responsibilities, it can cause a strain on others. What the interviewer is looking for is your ability to address a possibly tense situation with professionalism while maintaining as much order as possible within your role.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      1st Answer Example

      "There are times when everyone feels a bit inadequate or as if they can't finish a job. That's understandable. If a coworker was constantly leaving a job incomplete, however, I think it may be better left to the lab manager to address the issue. In this case, I would ask to speak to my supervisor privately and voice my concerns. I would remember to not be judgmental, as the supervisor may already be aware and taking measures to correct the situation. I will continue to do my job as assigned and offer assistance to others, when I am able."

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Entry Level

      "It can be frustrating when others don't do their job, as we all work together as a team to get things done. However, it is not my job to correct another employee. If the situation is truly one that seems to be habitual and it is affecting my work or the overall production of my team,I will report my concerns to my supervisor and trust them to manage the situation."

      Experienced

      "Unfortunately, situations like this may arise in any work environment. I have learned, throughout my career, to not pass judgement too quickly. There are often times that a person is going through something personally and it affects their work before they even realize it. I would like to think that I could kindly offer support to my coworker and see if we can work as a team to get things accomplished and caught up. If that approach does not work, I will notify my lab manager and let it be handled."

      Community Answer

      "Talk to him personally. Let him be reminded that drs and patients are dependent on our job and will reflect patient healthcare."

      Written by an Anonymous User

      Medical lab technician interview questions and answers pdf

      Our Professional Interview Coach
      Lauren McCabe Reviewed the Above Answer

      Great start. I created more depth in your response so the interviewer can see more of your value system and work style.

      "I value transparency and open communication in the workplace. I would address the situation privately and expeditiously, as their actions are a reflection of the overall company reputation. I treat others the way I would like to be treated, so when having the discussion, I would offer my observations while coming up with solutions to address the issue. I do not want to blame or confront people; that method is unnecessary and not constructive."

  • 3.

    If you began to feel overwhelmed with your workload or other work related issues, how would you handle the situation?

      How to Answer

      Working as a medical laboratory technician requires a great deal of time and attention to detail. The interviewer understands the stresses that are often related to being a lab tech. He wants to know that you can identify personal stressors and that you are capable of addressing them before the anxiety of a situation gets out of hand.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      1st Answer Example

      "I am usually not easily overwhelmed, but we do all have times that some situations affect us differently. If I begin to feel anxious or overwhelmed, if possible, I take a break for a few minutes. Sometimes just stepping outside and getting a breath of fresh air helps me to relax. Also, I am not too embarrassed to call on a coworker or supervisor if I need help. Patient care is my number one priority."

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Experienced

      "Working as a medical lab tech, there are times that we all feel overwhelmed. I have found that when I begin to have feelings of stress or anxiety, it is always a good idea to let a team leader know. Sometimes a short break or a slight change in routine is all it takes to relieve those feelings."

      Community Answer

      "I would take a moment to breathe and gather my thoughts. After I took a moment to collect myself, I would trace my steps from the beginning to find out why I am getting so overwhelmed. Once the reason is identified, I can come up with a new plan to approach my workload to prevent feeling overwhelmed again. If this does not help, I am not afraid to ask a colleague for help."

      Written by an Anonymous User

      Medical lab technician interview questions and answers pdf

      Our Professional Interview Coach
      Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer

      Well thought out answer, and it's delivered in an easy to absorb way. Good work.

  • 4.

    What would you do if a patient complained to you about one of your coworker's conduct toward him/her?

      How to Answer

      This question aims to test your knowledge of internal procedures used within healthcare establishments. While the exact protocol for this may be specific to the place you're applying, there are general rules that should be followed by all healthcare providers, no matter which facility you work in. It is important to explain that all complaints must be taken seriously and be directed to the appropriate member of staff so that appropriate action can be taken. Emphasize that patient concerns should never be ignored.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 5.

    If you discovered that a coworker was violating a patient's privacy by discussing his information with someone outside of the care team, how would you respond?

      How to Answer

      Patient privacy is protected by federal law and anyone who works in the healthcare industry is required to understand and follow the law. Failure to do so can result in loss of employment, and possible criminal charges. The interviewer wants to know that you understand your role in protecting a patient's privacy and that you will make wise decisions if you feel a patient's confidentiality has been compromised.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 6.

    Do you have any plans that may interfere with being able to commit to long-term employment with us?

      How to Answer

      Knowing what goals you have and any changes you anticipate in your life will give the interviewer an opportunity to evaluate two things: 1. what positions are available that won't disrupt your plans and, 2. are you interested in having a long-term relationship within the company? Either way, being upfront and honest is always appreciated.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 7.

    Tell me about a time you experienced a significant change in your workplace, and how did you adapt to the change?

      How to Answer

      In any healthcare setting, change is inevitable. Technology, processes, leadership, laws and organizations change. The interviewer is looking for cues from you that you are willing to embrace change without it being disruptive to your work productivity.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 8.

    Can you give me some examples of some equipment that you feel proficient operating within a medical lab?

      How to Answer

      Although medical laboratory technicians may operate a variety of different types of equipment, there may be specific ones that you feel more comfortable working with. An interviewer will usually ask this type of question so that he can see what your 'comfort zone' is, and to determine where you might best fit with your immediate skills. Further, it will give the interviewer an idea of what specific training you may need to help you feel proficient with all equipment within their lab. Be honest regarding your skills, as they will become evident when you are working.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 9.

    Has there ever been an emergency situation in your department, and how did you/would you react in such a situation?

      How to Answer

      Depending on the situation, you will want to respond quickly and make yourself available to assist the doctor in any way you can. Be aware of the surroundings and also observe the patient. Your best response will be one where you are sensitive to the situation by listening closely to the doctor and nurses involved. There may not be anything you can do to help, but if you get in the way, you could definitely create more problems. Ask what you can do and pay attention. If you need to step aside, be respectful and understanding.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 10.

    What is one of your weaknesses, and what do you do in an effort to overcome that weakness?

      How to Answer

      This is probably one of the most dreaded questions in a job interview. Answering this question requires self evaluation and honesty. Remember, whatever weakness you decide to share, make sure it is not a key characteristic needed to perform your job as a blood bank lab technician.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 11.

    Are you familiar with some errors that may occur when using a pipette and how to prevent those errors?

      How to Answer

      Pipettes, also called pipets or chemical droppers, are small tubes of glass or plastic used to transfer a measurable amount of liquid from one container to another. They come in two forms: volumetric pipettes, used to transfer a single specific volume of liquid, and measuring pipettes, used to transfer varying, measured volumes. Share an example of a common error.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 12.

    Do you feel that you are capable of working independently, rather than having a supervisor or coworker work with you?

      How to Answer

      Like any other medical department, medical laboratories have unit managers or supervisors who oversee the day to day operations and assign duties to personnel within that department. However, Medical Laboratory Technicians are expected to learn skills that will enable them to work independently of other staff. The interviewer wants to know that you are comfortable with being given independent assignments. Be sure that your confidence does not come across as 'being cocky.' You can do that by stating that you are comfortable working independently, but that you don't mind working with a partner or team, and that you also ask for help if you are unsure about something.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 13.

    If you were the person interviewing employee candidates, what qualities would you look for to fill this position?

      How to Answer

      There is more than one reason for asking this question. First, the interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are important to perform this job. Second, and most importantly, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others. If you want to see certain characteristics in your peers, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well. This question is one that interviewers often use to distinguish sincerity on the part of the candidate.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 14.

    Other than technical work, such as testing specimens, what other duties are you accustomed to performing within a medical laboratory?

      How to Answer

      The work of a medical lab technician is not limited to performing experiments and tests. The interviewer wants to know that you are able, and willing, to do whatever the job requires. Share your experience of, not only operating equipment, but your understanding of the importance of other laboratory duties.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 15.

    How do you handle times when you have a disagreement with a coworker?

      How to Answer

      Any time you work with someone else, there is a chance of having a disagreement about something at one time or another. The interviewer knows this. It's human nature for people to have their own opinions. What is important to the interviewer in this question is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your co-workers. Being unwilling to compromise or find alternative solutions to a dispute can affect everyone on the team, even if it is indirectly. Sharing a personal experience is OK, but do not embellish it to 'be the hero.'

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 16.

    What is one of your biggest fears about being a medical lab technician?

      How to Answer

      While a career in the healthcare industry is very rewarding, the responsibility that each member of the care team has to shoulder can, sometimes, become overwhelming. As a medical laboratory technician, there is a great deal of responsibility, such as handling specimens, monitoring machines for accuracy and reporting results. The interviewer wants to know that, although some things related to your work may cause you to be cautious, you are able to handle those things with professionalism and not allow yourself to become so overwhelmed that it interferes with your job performance.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 17.

    What are some things that you do to help prevent contamination within your work space?

      How to Answer

      Contamination in a medical laboratory can cause a catastrophe on so many levels. Knowing how to protect yourself and your workplace is crucial. The interviewer wants to know that you understand the importance of preventing contamination and what you feel like you can do to make sure your workplace is free of contamination events.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 18.

    What sets you apart from other medical laboratory technicians, and why do you feel you will be a good fit for us?

      How to Answer

      In most cases, more than one candidate is interviewed for a position before an offer of employment is made. This is your chance to tell the interviewer what makes you a better choice. However, remember that being confident and being conceited have a fine line of separation. Highlight your strengths, but remember to be humble.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 19.

    Do you feel like you have strong relationship building skills?

      How to Answer

      Building strong relationships is essential for success of any business. The healthcare industry is no exception. The interviewer wants to know that you value building strong relationships and why you think you have the necessary skills to do so. Share your thoughts.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 20.

    If a lab specimen were delivered to you without the proper labels and identification on it, what would your response be?

      How to Answer

      Because of safety issues and the risks of misdiagnosis, laboratories have policies in place regarding how specimens should be labeled and handled. The interviewer wants to know that you are capable of addressing mislabeled or unlabeled specimens in the appropriate manner. If you have experienced a similar incident, it is OK to share this with the interviewer as long as patient confidentiality is not compromised.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 21.

    What advice would you give others who are considering pursuing a career as a medical laboratory technician?

      How to Answer

      We all have something of substance to add to the lives of others. Being willing to share your personal insight and experiences with others who may come after you is a privilege. An interviewer will often ask a question like this to see if you are approachable and willing to help others.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 22.

    Has there ever been a time that you had difficulty drawing blood from a patient, and if so, how did you handle that situation?

      How to Answer

      Unfortunately, there are times that everyone who draws blood has difficulty with a venipuncture. The interviewer is aware of that and simply wants to know that you are able to handle the situation professionally without causing the patient to be alarmed. If possible, share an experience that you had with the interviewer.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 23.

    Some medical laboratory technicians at our facility often work on rotation. Are you willing to work, nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime if needed?

      How to Answer

      Being flexible with the schedule you are willing to work is always a plus. However, many people work more than one job or have a one parent home which requires them to have a flexible schedule. Others simply prefer to work one shift rather than another. Being upfront with the interviewer about what schedule suits your preference could help prevent conflict later on. It is easier to plan a schedule you can agree on than it is to fix problems that arise due to fear of being rejected. Be honest and direct.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 24.

    Are you comfortable performing venipunctures?

      How to Answer

      While phlebotomy tasks are not always required for many Medical Laboratory Technician positions, being comfortable performing venipunctures with ease is always a plus. One thing is important to remember: When an interviewer asks questions that include 'are you comfortable with....' or 'would you be willing to...', be sure to be honest. If you have experience performing venipunctures, say so. If you don't have experience, state your willingness to learn.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 25.

    If you had a patient come to your lab stating his physician sent him to have his blood drawn, but he didn't bring a lab requisition slip, how would you help remedy the situation without neglecting other patients?

      How to Answer

      Questions like these are the interviewer's way of gauging your communication and customer service skills. Keep in mind, customer service should be a high priority for anyone working in the healthcare industry. The interviewer wants to know that you are able to communicate effectively with the client and provide good care, all while following protocol.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 26.

    Have you ever had a patient be combative toward you? If so, how did you handle the situation?

      How to Answer

      Unfortunately, there are times when a patient may be more difficult to care for than others. The interviewer wants to know that, when faced with this type of situation, you will be able to maintain your composure and handle the incident professionally.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 27.

    Personal protective equipment is provided for all of our employees. If you saw a coworker performing a test that required the use of PPE, but he was not wearing it, how would you respond?

      How to Answer

      Exposure to blood and body fluids is one of the risks associated with being a medical laboratory technician. Because of the risk of exposure, policies relating to the use of personal protective equipment are in place in laboratories. The interviewer wants to know that you are able to identify the times that PPE should be worn. Further, the interviewer will be looking for verbiage that points to your ability to communicate with your coworker without sounding condescending.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 28.

    If a test system deficiency was discovered or suspected, how would you handle the situation?

      How to Answer

      Ensuring that there are no deficiencies in the testing system is crucial for giving accurate test results. If a deficiency is suspected or discovered, it is your responsibility to make sure that the appropriate staff are notified and the test is run again to assure accuracy before reporting results. Take this time to let the interviewer know that you are familiar with maintaining auditing worksheets, quality control records and preventative maintenance records. Letting the interviewer know that you are proficient in the administrative portion of being a Laboratory Technician will be an added plus to the interview.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 29.

    Have you ever received negative feedback from a supervisor, and if so, how did you handle it?

      How to Answer

      Receiving negative feedback can be discouraging, but it doesn't have to be something that leaves you feeling incapable of doing your job. The important thing to remember when answering this question is don't talk negatively about the person who gave you the feedback. Rather state what was said and how you grew from the event.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • 30.

    The physical requirements of working as a medical lab tech can often be demanding. Do you feel like you are able to stand for long hours, or lift/transfer equipment, as needed?

      How to Answer

      Knowing the requirements for a job before applying is always important. As a medical laboratory technician, there will be a great deal of time spent standing and moving/lifting equipment. When applying for a job that requires some physical exertion, most interviewers will address that need during the interview. If you are capable of handling the physical work, say so. If you feel you can stand for long hours, but have trouble lifting heavy objects,say that, too. It is always best to address these issues during an interview rather than omitting the information just to get a job. This would be a good time for you to express your understanding of the importance of self-care when working a job that requires physical exertion.

      Written by Darby Faubion on January 22nd, 2019

      Answer Examples Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

      Community Answers Have Been Hidden

      Please upgrade to view

  • What are the questions asked in lab technician interview?

    Questions about experience and background.
    What lab equipment do you have experience using?.
    What steps do you take to avoid contamination?.
    What were your previous responsibilities in a lab setting?.
    What sterilization methods are you familiar with? ... .
    What is your approach to working with large sets of data?.

    What are the 10 most common interview questions and answers medical field?

    12 common healthcare interview questions and how to answer them.
    "Tell me about yourself." ... .
    "Why did you choose to apply?" ... .
    "What is your biggest strength?" ... .
    "What is your biggest weakness?" ... .
    "How do you see the future of healthcare?" ... .
    "How do you stay informed on current events and advancements in healthcare?".

    What are the skills of a lab technician?

    Key skills for laboratory technicians.
    Independence..
    Meticulous attention to detail..
    Excellent written and oral communication skills..
    Good teamworking skills..
    Analytical skills..
    Time management..

    Why I want to be a lab technician?

    Being at the forefront of research As well as enhancing their scientific and technical credentials, lab technicians focus heavily on research and making discoveries. They work on a range of projects with colleagues, developing a broader subject expertise, and developing new skills and approaches.