Cls I (Pt - Nights)

About the Role

Analyzes specimens and performs laboratory testing procedures in accordance with established and approved protocol, requiring the exercise of independent judgment and interpretation. Must be able to perform jobs in all patient care and operational areas subject to reasonable accommodations, and employ all mandatory safety devices and procedures. This is a union position.

Responsibilities

Pre-Analytical Responsibilities

• Biological specimen collection including patient preparation, labeling, handling, preservation or fixation, processing or preparation, inoculation, subculturing or staining, transportation, and storage of specimens.
• Receives, collects, and delivers specimens to appropriate departments.
• Confirms completeness of test requisition and test orders.
• Verifies specimens are labeled accurately and meet minimal labeling requirements.
• Verifies specimen type and integrity; identifies, researches, and corrects routine problems.
• Checks specimen source or site for microbiology samples.
• Verifies specimen collection date and time.
• Checks for duplicate collections (e.g., one blood culture set per draw site).
• Accessions specimens into the laboratory computer system, recording accurate collection time and specimen details.
• Prepares specimens for analysis while maintaining correct and complete identification, using appropriate centrifuge methods.
• Documents and forwards pertinent information necessary for accurate calculation of test results.
• Utilizes materials and procedures required for quality control of testing processes, adhering to established laboratory protocol and/or Westgard rules.
• Knows operational procedures for the Computerized Tube System.

Analytical Responsibilities

• Analyzes specimens following standard methods and procedures in sections such as Coagulation, Chemistry, Hematology/Serology, Body Fluids/Urinalysis, Transfusion Service, and Microbiology.
• Assists with testing in all departments as necessary to maintain optimum processing of results.
• Demonstrates ability to set priorities and adhere to laboratory policy concerning STAT testing, delta checks, critical values, and abnormal values.
• Telephones or faxes results as appropriate within acceptable time frames.
• Makes decisions involving test validity, monitors testing for deviation from acceptable limits, initiates retesting when required, and alerts Laboratory Director or Supervisor of errors.
• Responds to changes in workload, assisting with testing in all departments as needed.
• Knows downtime procedures for both computer and instrumentation, and the process for reporting computer problems on off-shifts.
• Familiar with send-out procedures for after-hour transport of testing and for down instrumentation.

Post-Analytical Responsibilities

• Maintains laboratory records, log sheets, worksheets, and paperwork; documents and signs work acknowledging responsibility.
• Reviews pending logs at the end of the shift to determine the status of incomplete work.
• Prepares the End of Shift Report (EOSR) and communicates with the next shift to ensure continuity of service.
• Ensures telephone calls are answered and all reports are delivered in a timely manner.
• Handles customer service complaints, resolves issues within scope, and escalates problems requiring further attention to the Supervisor.

Department Responsibilities

• Performs instrument/equipment preventative maintenance procedures, documents malfunctions, and reports them to the Laboratory Director or Supervisor.
• Inspects equipment, troubleshoots failures, and takes corrective action as necessary; calls for technical service when required.
• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with laboratory staff, nursing staff, and physicians.
• Monitors inventory in all lab departments, restocks supplies, and ensures orders are placed and put away.
• Participates in proficiency testing surveys, including specimen preparation, analysis, and reporting.
• Participates in annual competency testing for all departments.
• Oversees and delegates duties to the Laboratory Technical Assistant (LTA), including quality control, calibration, inventory, and troubleshooting.
• Actively cross-trains in all eight disciplines performed by the laboratory.
• Demonstrates competency in all eight disciplines within one year of employment.
• Masters one general laboratory section (e.g., blood bank).
• Resolves technical situations at a basic level; refers complicated situations to senior staff.
• Provides training and assists new personnel in department orientation; acts as a resource for new staff.
• Assists CLS Supervisor in coordinating and training CLS and MLT students.
• Supports integrated automated Core Laboratory operations to provide accurate and efficient patient test information.
• Works to raise efficiency, productivity, and reduce operating costs and waste.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology or equivalent discipline.
• Internship for one year in an approved program for Medical Technology preferred.
• Clinical Laboratory Scientist license in the State of California.
• Continuing education as required by the state to maintain licensure as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS).

Schedule

0.5 FTE (20 hours per week) – Night shift, 8-hour shifts.