Lab Tech - PRN

About the Role

The Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) or Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) performs complex laboratory tests and procedures on patient specimens to assist in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease. This role involves analyzing samples, interpreting test results, and ensuring the quality and accuracy of laboratory data to support clinical decisions and patient care.

Responsibilities

• Properly identify patients and samples during pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases of testing.
• Collect, process, and handle blood and other biological specimens according to established procedures; instruct patients in proper sample collection.
• Perform venipuncture or finger sticks to obtain blood samples while observing aseptic principles.
• Conduct routine and complex laboratory tests on biological specimens (e.g., blood, urine, stool) to diagnose diseases or conditions, including blood counts using a microscope and blood tests for transfusion purposes.
• Analyze and interpret laboratory results to provide accurate and reliable data for physicians and healthcare teams.
• Ensure laboratory equipment and test processes meet quality control standards; perform, evaluate, and document calibration and quality control to ensure validity and accuracy.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of test results and laboratory activities; generate reports for healthcare professionals.
• Follow infection control, safety, and environmental protocols.
• Adhere to laboratory policies and regulatory requirements, including those set by Joint Commission, CLIA, and CMS.
• Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and healthcare teams to ensure accurate specimen collection, processing, and interpretation of results; provide consultative advice on laboratory test selection and interpretation.
• Ensure proper operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of laboratory instruments; perform preventative maintenance to reduce downtime.
• Monitor inventory levels of reagents, supplies, and equipment; order materials as needed and maintain proper storage conditions.
• Communicate effectively with physicians, nurses, patients, and families; act as a resource for laboratory medicine information.
• Manage materials used in the laboratory, including proper handling, inventory, and disposal to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and safety.

Requirements

• Comprehensive understanding of clinical laboratory procedures, techniques, and protocols.
• In-depth knowledge of laboratory instrumentation, including proper use, calibration, and maintenance.
• Understanding of quality control and quality assurance processes to ensure accurate and reliable test results.
• Familiarity with laboratory accreditation processes and compliance with internal and external audits.
• High attention to detail to ensure accuracy and precision in laboratory results.
• Ability to follow complex protocols and procedures with precision.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tests and projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a 2-year college program or equivalent experience in chemical, biological, or clinical laboratory science or medical technology.
• Meets qualifications for testing personnel performing high complexity testing as specified in CLIA Subpart M. Sec. 493.1491.
• Completion of Dependent Adult/Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training within established timelines.
• Minimum of 24 hours of medical lab tech courses or 6 hours of chemistry, 6 hours of biology, and 12 hours of chemistry, biology, or medical lab tech.
• Certification as a Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) or categorical/specialist certification in a laboratory discipline from ASCP, or certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) from HEW or AMT, or completion of a Military training course as a Medical Laboratory Specialist.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) training preferred.
• 1 year of experience preferred but not required.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to moderately adverse and undesirable environmental conditions, including health and safety risks.
• Possible exposure to bloodborne pathogens; safety equipment and precautions required.
• Moderate to high levels of interaction with a variety of people inside and outside the organization, involving detailed and lengthy dialogues or exchanges of information.
• May involve dealing with moderately complicated problem situations or stressful encounters.
• Adherence to safety programs, HIPAA, and confidentiality protocols related to patient and medical information.

Key Relationships

• Co-workers and employees within the organization.
• Outside agencies and other healthcare providers.
• General public, visitors, and volunteers.
• Physicians and medical office staff.
• Students, interns, residents, and outside instructors.
• Patients, families, and significant others.
• Auditors and review agencies.