Medical Lab Technician

Reports to the Lab Manager. Independently performs qualitative and quantitative laboratory tests in assigned section(s) following established policies and procedures. Identifies problems that may adversely affect test performance and/or results and uses knowledge, deductive skills and judgment to troubleshoot and resolve them.

MISSION, VALUES and SERVICE GOALS

• MISSION: We deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.
• VALUES: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.
• SERVICE GOALS: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team

Independently performs qualitative and quantitative laboratory tests in assigned sections(s) following established policies and procedures by:

• Performing tests and calculations, documenting and reporting results following prescribed instructions and predetermined criteria.
• Notifying physicians of critical lab values immediately.
• Adhering to established quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) policies and procedures. (Including documenting QA/QI activities, implementing corrective action, and performing proficiency testing).
• Recognizing abnormal or unusual pre-analytical and post-analytical problems, uses established corrective action procedures and judgment to take appropriate follow-up actions, documents all corrective actions and notifies Manager as appropriate.
• Independently operating, calibrating and conducting performance checks and maintaining laboratory instruments and equipment following written criteria.
• Maintaining procedures, records and logs following established procedures as directed.
• Preparing specimens and supplies for transport or shipping following applicable shipping regulations.
• Maintaining appropriate levels of supplies and reagents and placing orders as needed.
• Maintaining cleanliness of laboratory, cleaning spills with special attention to body fluid precautions and contaminated waste disposal per OSHA guidelines.
• Identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results, correcting problem or immediately notifying Manager.
• Providing technical information about laboratory tests and results to physicians and other authorized individuals.
• Receiving and collecting specimens for laboratory testing including drawing blood, collecting urine and handling of other bodily materials and fluids from patients as needed.
• Providing instruction to new associates and students in the performance of routine procedures following established criteria as directed.
• Accessioning and processing specimens for laboratory testing as needed.
• Performing responsibilities of testing personnel for high and moderate complexity testing as defined under CFR.493.1495 and CFR.493.1425 respectively.

Performs other functions to maintain personal competence and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the department by:

• Completing other job-related assignments and special projects as directed.
• Assuming charge duty responsibilities as assigned.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Associate complies with the following organizational requirements:

• Attends and participates in department meetings and is accountable for all information shared.
• Completes mandatory education, annual competencies and department specific education within established timeframes.
• Completes annual employee health requirements within established timeframes.
• Maintains license/certification, registration in good standing throughout fiscal year.
• Direct patient care providers are required to maintain current BCLS (CPR) and other certifications as required by position/department.
• Consistently utilizes appropriate universal precautions, protective equipment, and ergonomic techniques to protect patient and self.
• Adheres to regulatory agency requirements, survey process and compliance.
• Complies with established organization and department policies.
• Available to work overtime in addition to working additional or other shifts and schedules when required.

Commitment to Beacon’s six-point Operating System, referred to as The Beacon Way:

• Leverage innovation everywhere.
• Cultivate human talent.
• Embrace performance improvement.
• Build greatness through accountability.
• Use information to improve and advance.
• Communicate clearly and continuously.

Education and Experience

• The knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated below are normally acquired through the successful completion of an associate degree in Medical Laboratory Technology or in a chemical, physical or biological science and completion of an AMT. NAACLS, ASCP, or ABHES-accredited Medical Laboratory Technician program. Certification as a technician by an appropriate accrediting agency i.e., ASCP,AMT, HEW/HHS or equivalent is required within one year of graduation or hire. One year related medical laboratory experience preferred. Candidate must qualify as testing personnel for high and moderate complexity testing as defined under CFR.493.1489 and CFR.493.1423 respectively and qualify as a CLIA General Supervisor for high complexity testing as defined under CFR 493.1461 when assigned those duties.

Knowledge & Skills

• Requires an in-depth knowledge of medical laboratory procedures and testing systems in order to perform laboratory tests, interpret test results, perform quality control checks and maintain instrumentation and skill in performing a full range of clinical laboratory tests.
• Requires ability to be effective in a fast paced, quality focused, multi-priority environment that frequently deals with stressful situations and deadlines.
• Demonstrates interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written) necessary to maintain effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, other employees, and the public.
• Demonstrates proficient computer skills and knowledge of laboratory information systems and applications.

Working Conditions

• Possible exposure to communicable diseases, hazardous substances, chemicals and other conditions common to a hospital laboratory.

Physical Demands

• Requires the physical ability and stamina (i.e., to stand for long periods of time, walk short distances, and lift up to 35 pounds) to perform the essential functions of the position. Also requires visual acuity, normal color perception, and full range of body motion, including manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination.