Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) Intern / Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) Intern

About the Role

The Medical Laboratory Technician, Intern is a student who works in laboratory departments where they have successfully completed a clinical rotation at a Singing River Health System (SRHS) laboratory. This role involves evaluating specimens for testing acceptability, performing accurate and appropriate testing, verifying result accuracy, and reporting results in a timely manner according to established protocols.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate specimens for acceptability for proper testing.
• Perform accurate and appropriate testing of specimens according to established laboratory protocol and procedures.
• Verify accuracy of results before reporting.
• Report test results in a timely manner according to established laboratory protocol and procedures.
• Perform maintenance and calibration on instruments and equipment as needed.
• Troubleshoot instruments, equipment, reagents, and patient specimens when problems occur.
• Comply with established laboratory and hospital policies for universal precautions, safety procedures, and exposure control/plans for bloodborne and airborne pathogens.
• Perform phlebotomy (venipunctures, finger sticks, bleeding times) as appropriate for patients requiring this procedure.
• Ensure all duties are performed in accordance with SRHS procedures, policies, accreditation standards, and governing guidance for healthcare employees.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in and maintaining a B or better average in a Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) or Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) Associate Degree program.
• Must obtain certification by the American Society of Clinical Pathology or comparable agency upon completion of the MLT or CLS program.
• Must complete de-escalation training by the end of position orientation (90 days).
• Training and experience meeting the requirements of the clinical laboratory rotation for the educational degree being obtained.

Skills

• Keen mental faculties, assessment, and decision-making abilities.
• Superior communication and enunciation skills for receiving and giving information in person and by telephone.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Emotional stability to handle high-stress levels.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail and ability to multi-task in complex situations.
• Ability to maintain collaborative and respectable working relationships.
• Superior customer service skills and professional etiquette.
• Proficient knowledge and ability to use computers, MS Outlook, Word, and other office technology.
• Ability to apply appropriate professional skills to a patient population of all ages.

Physical Demands

• Moderately active work involving sitting, moving about the office and facility, and traveling within the SRHS service area.
• Exerting negligible force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects, including the human body.
• Using many physical motions in daily work activities, including repetitive wrist, hand, and finger movements.
• Exposure to body fluids, sputum, and tissues, which may carry the hazard of infectious disease.
• Ability to perceive sound at normal speaking levels with or without correction.
• Close visual acuity and ability to adjust focus between computer monitors and printed materials.
• Ability to remain active for extended periods without undue fatigue.
• Flexibility to work assigned schedules, including off days, shifts, or weekends as needed by the hospital.

Mental Demands

• Ability to demonstrate clinical judgment and apply professional skills.
• Must be able to travel throughout the SRHS service area, providing own transportation.