Blood Gas Technician

Responsibilities

• Collects blood samples using direct arterial entry, arterial lines and capillary finger and heel sticks on adults and neonates.
• Performs specialized assays or procedures via various analytical methods using benchtop and point-of care analyzers.
• Evaluates analytical results for error or unexpected values and competently engages provider or care teams to determine validity.
• Maintains laboratory work records.
• Responds to and provides point-of-care lab services for various critical paged events (e.g. Brain Attack, Trauma, ED Critical, Neuro Emergency, STEMI).
• Evaluates, troubleshoots problems and makes decisions related to specimen preparation, procedures for preparation and specimen quality.
• Notifies appropriate physicians or providers of STAT or critical patient lab results.
• Enters lab results into the computer and forwards test results to the patient chart.
• Performs oximetry readings using a Pulse Oximeter to non-invasively measure oxygen saturation.
• Affords assistance in the operation of the lab by delegating assignments and prioritizing work.
• Affords assistance in orienting new employees regarding essential functions, workflow and sampling techniques.
• Performs and documents equipment maintenance, calibrations and quality control checks.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least one (1) year of college education in a biological, chemical or physical science program, or at least one (1) year of experience in a patient care environment.
• Certified RQI Healthcare Provider eCredential through the University of Utah Health RQI system.

Skills

• Demonstrated potential ability to perform the essential functions as outlined above.
• Demonstrated human relation and effective communication skills.
• Ability to provide care to the population served.
• Ability to coordinate with other departments, clinicians or patients effectively to ensure accurate information and specimen integrity to facilitate rapid diagnosis or treatment.
• Ability to troubleshoot and recognize technical problems as they arise, seeking assistance from the supervisor when controls fail and results are not as expected.
• Ability to work unscheduled hours and rotate on-call responsibilities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient's status and provide care as described in the department's policies and procedures manual.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in direct patient care and blood gas procedures is preferred.