Medical Laboratory Technician or Medical Laboratory Scientist

About the role

This position contributes to the fulfillment of Thayer County Health Services vision and mission by exercising appropriate judgment based on knowledge and skills, contributing and participating in all aspects of the laboratory department.

Responsibilities

• Maintains and performs laboratory services in accordance with CLIA standards and within the established budget.
• Adheres to test methods that provide the quality of results required for patient testing.
• Ensures procedures are adhered to so that tests are performed accurately.
• Participate in proficiency testing and ensures that PT samples are tested like patients and results are reviewed, problem identified and problem corrected. Sign PT testing prior to submission.
• Adhere to quality assurance and quality control programs that are in place.
• Maintain acceptable levels of analytical performance.
• Ensure technical problems are corrected and patient test results are reported only when systems are working properly.
• Monitor testing procedures to ensure acceptable levels of performance.
• Ensure reports are adequate.
• Utilizes consultation when needed.
• Have proper education, training and experience prior to reporting patient results.
• Identify training needs and participate in regular in-service training.
• Works closely with a reference lab to ensure high quality testing, correct billing and timely reports for send out tests.
• Collaborates with the medical staff to coordinate ordering and receiving laboratory supplies.
• Collects data, prepares reports, answers correspondence, and compiles statistics for administration.
• Maintain an environment of transparency, respect, and open communication with other departments to ensure quality service to patients.
• Maintains an efficient, effective LEAN process in all aspects of laboratory actions and responsibilities.
• Participates in professional development activities and maintains professional affiliations.
• Maintains strict confidentiality.
• Attends seminars/workshops pertaining to the department.
• Attends committee and employee meetings.
• Participates in volunteer activities that promote community, hospital and individual growth.
• May be asked to serve on special committees as management and laboratory director requires.
• Operates and maintains all laboratory equipment.
• Keeps workrooms, equipment, and accessories clean.
• Obtains various specimens from patients, either at bedside, at nursing home or in the lab. Including: capillary, venous, and arterial specimens.
• Working with pediatric through geriatric patients.
• Performs tests and related duties in the areas of urinalysis, chemistry, microbiology, coagulation, serology, hematology, and transfusion services using standard laboratory methods and techniques as determined by the pathologist.
• Performs tasks related to these tests, such as posting results, recording patient’s charges, and identifying and labeling specimens to be retained, prepares specimens for send out or mailing.
• Maintains instrumentation by performing scheduled required preventive maintenance.
• Needs to be proficient in computers, LIS/HIS systems and EMR.
• Shares in rotation for on call, to perform emergency tests during the night, on weekends and holidays.
• Develops and maintains an environment of safety.
• Reviews, validates and enters written orders into the LIS.
• Registers patients into the LIS for their lab appointment.
• Promotes an environment free of drama, focused on patient testing and care.

Qualifications

• Must possess a minimum of an Associates Degree in the field Medical Laboratory Technology or Medical Laboratory Science required; Bachelor’s Degree in the field of Medical Laboratory Technology or Medical Laboratory Science preferred.
• Holds ASCP or AMT professional certification, and must maintain proper standing.
• Requires full range of body motion including manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination.
• Requires visual acuity and normal color perception.