Job Summary

Responsible for the processing of laboratory specimens and reporting of results in all areas of the clinical laboratory. May be responsible for the collecting, testing and storing of blood. Maintains laboratory records. Follows laboratory policies and procedures; maintains quality control practices in the Laboratory. Participates in performance improvement activities.

Demonstrates Competency in the Following Areas

• Ability to function in all areas of the clinical laboratory.
• Ensures that all testing performed is on the proper specimen for the correct patient.
• Interacts professionally with all persons, both in person and on phone.
• Works independently, while asking for assistance when needed for patient care.
• Demonstrates ability to review test results to ensure quality control.
• Performs quality control procedures and instrument checks, as needed.
• Demonstrates knowledge of expected lab values for the neonate, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patient.
• Notifies patient care unit and/or physician of critical lab values.
• Maintains accurate laboratory records on procedures performed.
• Meets current documentation standards and policies.
• Consults with other departments, as appropriate, to collaborate in patient care and performance improvement activities.
• Performs all aspects, within the laboratory, of patient care to ensure an environment that optimizes patient safety and reduces the likelihood of medical/health care errors.
• Supports and maintains a culture of safety and quality.
• Always follows standard precautions.
• Manages and operates laboratory equipment safely and correctly.
• Demonstrates knowledge of new testing methods, products, instrumentation; remains informed on all current technologies.
• Maintains current knowledge of hospital policy, accrediting organization, state and other regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrates the ability to be flexible, organized and function under stressful situations.
• Demonstrates the value of teamwork on a consistent basis.
• Ensures that all proficiency testing is carried out appropriately.
  • Proficiency testing samples are tested as required.
  • The test results are returned within specific time limits that the proficiency testing program dictates.
• Other duties as assigned within the scope of practice.

Professional Requirements

• Adheres to dress code, appearance is neat and clean.
• Completes annual educational requirements.
• Maintains regulatory requirements.
• Always maintains patient confidentiality.
• Reports to work on time and as scheduled; completes work within designated time.
• Wears identification while on duty; uses computerized punch time system correctly.
• Attends annual review and department in-services, as scheduled.
• Attends or reads and signs all staff meeting minutes.
• Represents the organization in a positive and professional manner.
• Actively participates in performance improvement and continuous quality improvement (CQI) activities.
• Complies with all organizational policies.
• Communicates the mission, ethics, and goals of the hospital as well as the focus statement of the department.

Regulatory Requirements:

• Associate of Science degree in Medical Technology, Chemistry or Biology, or other relevant science, as allowed by CLIA.
• Certification as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, from a nationally recognized organization.
• Current BLS certification from the American Heart Association, preferred.

Language Skills

• Ability to effectively communicate in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Additional languages preferred.

Skills

• Basic computer knowledge.
• Operates all laboratory equipment safely and appropriately.

Physical Demands

• For physical demands of position, see separate physical demands document.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position without compromising patient care.