Lab Technician

Position Summary

Performs a variety of laboratory tests, from routine to complex, requiring independent judgment and responsibility; reports results, maintains records, equipment and quality control.

Requirements And Qualifications

• MT - Baccalaureate degree in Medical Technology or related science with twelve months of clinical education in a school of medical technology or its equivalent accepted by certification agencies. National Certification: MT (ASCP), CLS (NCA), or equivalent.
• MLT - Associate Degree from an accredited Medical Laboratory Technician program or its equivalent accepted by certification agencies. National Certification: MLT (ASCP), CLT (NCA), or equivalent.
• CLT - Successful completion of qualifying exam offered by the Department of Health and Human Services of the Federal government.

Responsibilities

• Promptly and consistently procures acceptable specimens according to SOP (including adherence to universal precautions/PPE, patient identification, labeling and priority guidelines) with minimal discomfort to patient; utilizes judgment in varying technique appropriate to age of patient (neonatal, pediatric, geriatric); and promptly routes samples to appropriate laboratory area.
• Recognizes inappropriate/unusual test orders and seeks resolution thereof; recognizes difficult draws/situations and seeks assistance. Assists others with difficult draws/ situations when requested.
• Performs testing on accepted specimens such that no error is made that can be traced to carelessness or failure to follow the SOP and is completed within stated turnaround time.
• Efficiently organizes and manages workload without loss of accuracy, prioritizing as appropriate. Pending work is appropriately left for follow up.
• Maintains supply inventory as needed and notifies appropriate supervisory staff of pending shortages. Suggests ideas that conserve reagents, supplies, and reduces costs.
• Maintains work areas in a neat, orderly fashion. Stores supplies promptly as appropriate. Uses idle time to contribute to overall organization and appearance of laboratory work areas.
• Recognizes when critical values must be communicated and documents these communications. Routinely reviews test data to assess clinical correlation, including age and/or sex related variances; notes discrepancies and takes corrective action.
• Communicates information to caregiver as appropriate. Reviews Q.C. data according to SOP, recognizes out of control, discrepant, or unexpected results; implements and documents corrective action.
• Performs and documents preventive maintenance and/or calibration as scheduled or appropriate. Recognizes instrument/reagent malfunction or problems and takes corrective action (basic troubleshooting) without assistance.
• Promptly notifies primary operator and/or Technical Specialist. Participates in all laboratory Quality Assessment activities as appropriate or directed.
• Readily deals with unusual situations not covered by verbal or written instruction with efficiency and composure. Conveys resolution to appropriate supervisory personnel.
• Maintains an awareness of changes throughout the laboratory. Adapts to change or unusual circumstances in a way that promotes cooperation and minimizes disruption to the work environment.
• Serves as a reliable source of information for others, seeks out desired information as appropriate. Practices appropriate communication skills for exchanging ideas, information, and transmission of results to other healthcare professionals, often under strained or frustrating conditions, with few minor exceptions.
• Demonstrates a high degree of understanding of others even under stressful conditions. Resolves conflicts and solves problems with creativity and empathy. Goes out of way to help.
• Demonstrates courteous consideration for patients, visitors, co-workers and others involved in the delivery of healthcare to the community. Is positive, friendly and upbeat.
• Answers telephone promptly identifying self and department at all times. Is courteous and friendly to callers and takes care of their needs in timely manner. Acts as role model to others; assists in creating a harmonious and effective working environment.
• Complies with all departmental and facility policies regarding such things as confidentiality, safety, infection control, attendance, breaks, appearance, etc. Sets example for staff in acceptance of and compliance with all departmental/facility policies.

Physical Activity Requirements

• LIFT up to 10 lbs: Frequently when lifting supplies and/or equipment.
• LIFT 11 to 25 lbs: Occasionally when lifting supplies or equipment.
• LIFT 26 to 50 lbs: Infrequently when lifting supplies or equipment- may be assisted by another staff person.
• CARRY 11 to 25 lbs: Occasionally when carrying supplies or equipment.
• CARRY 26 to 50 lbs: Infrequently when carrying supplies or equipment -- may be assisted by another staff by another staff person.
• REACH above shoulder height: Occasionally when retrieving supplies.
• REACH at shoulder height: Frequently when performing lab tests or retrieving supplies.
• REACH below shoulder height: Frequently when performing lab test, retrieving supplies or obtaining specimens.
• Hand Manipulation Grasping: Frequently when operating equipment collecting specimens and performing tasks and responsibilities as listed above.
• Handling: Frequently when operating equipment collecting specimens and performing tasks and responsibilities as listed above.
• Fingering: Frequently when operating equipment collecting specimens and performing tasks and responsibilities as listed above.
• Controls & Equipment: Frequently required in operating lab equipment.
• Twisting: Necessary in operating lab equipment.
• Bending: Necessary in performing lab tests and collecting patient specimens.
• During An 8 Hour Day, Employee Is Required To Consecutive Hours Total Hours Sit: 1 2 Stand: less than 1 3 Walk: less than 1 3

Cognitive And Sensory Requirements

• Talking: Necessary in daily communication with patients, hospital personnel, physicians and visitors.
• Hearing: Necessary in daily communication with patients, hospital personnel, physicians and visitors.
• Sight: Necessary in performing duties and responsibilities contained in job description.

Work Hazards

• Risk of being exposed to communicable infections, disease, chemicals, eye strain if proper safety precautions are not followed.

Other Considerations And Requirements

• Workplace Safety: Follows all safety protocols and practices to prevent injury and illness.
• Confidentiality: Maintains strict confidentiality of patient and workplace information.
• Attendance: Attends regularly and punctually to all scheduled shifts.
• Professionalism: Exhibits professionalism and respect towards all colleagues and patients.
• Compliance: Complies with all departmental and facility policies and procedures.
• Benefits: Eligible for SDRS retirement, health insurance, dental and vision plans, sick leave, PTO, and other benefits as per company policy.