Medical Technologist

Summary

This position is responsible for analysis of biological specimens in the laboratory, including comprehensive knowledge of collecting specimens (such as venipuncture or collecting hazardous or infectious materials for culture). Prepares reagents, organizes daily workload and performs quality control. Appraises results to distinguish normal and abnormal values, performs calculations, prepares and distributes written, LIS, and verbal reports. Performs preventative maintenance of instruments, troubleshooting methodologies and teaches new technologists. Maintains daily and monthly workload and inventory of reagents and materials. Enters data into LIS as required. Follows all safety policies and procedures.


Responsibilities

(60%)* Analyzes and processes biological specimens, organizes workload and sets-up test procedures.


(20%)* Evaluates appropriateness of patient and quality control results and enters into the Laboratory information system. Strictly follows critical notification policy when results meet stated criteria.


(15%)* Maintains inventory and reorders reagents. Stocks shelves. Disposes of biohazards, chemicals, etc. in a safe manner following department procedure.


(5%)* Maintains and troubleshoots instruments.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs invasive procedures including venipuncture, micro-capillary collections, central line draws (where applicable) and other test procedures on patients of all age groups by following exact protocols and procedures.
• Performs and monitors quality control.
• Enters results into LIS.
• Monitors results using LIS reports.
• Follows all laboratory safety policies and procedures.
• Acts as backup to phlebotomy team and may perform venipuncture and/or collect cultures.
• Demonstrates knowledge and ability and competence in treating patients who range in age from birth to 100+ years.
• Works with section leaders to organize workflow and optimize patient care.
• Supervision Exercised: Limited in the absence of Technical Specialist and/or Manager MyMichigan Health is a technology driven organization and employees need to demonstrate competency in Microsoft Windows.
• An employee may be required to participate in further learning opportunities offered by MyMichigan Health.
• For High complexity tests, this position may serve as a General supervisor (CLIA definition) and for moderately complexity testing may serve as a Technical Consultant (TC) defined in laboratory policy, to ensure:
  Remedial actions are taken when test systems deviate from the laboratory's established performance specifications; Patient test results are not reported until all corrective actions have been taken and the test system functions properly;
  Orientation is provided to all testing personnel; and annual personnel performance evaluations and documentation of testing personnel performance competency.

Certifications and Licensures

Credential: Medical Technologist ASCP
Equivalent Experience: Must hold and maintain an active, national MLS certification within 12 months of hire. It is preferred the first attempt occurs within 3 months of hire.

Required Education

Education: Bachelors Degree
Equivalent Experience: A bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science/Technology or a bachelor's degree in a science or health related field with national MLS certification may also be considered.

Other Information

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING AND SKILLS

• Must be registered as an MT or MLS with the ASCP, NCA and/or HEW within 6 months of hire or transfer.
• Organizational skills needed to prioritize daily workload.
• Written and interpersonal skills needed to communicate successfully with individuals and groups and interact with employees at all levels within the Medical Center to communicate ideas and concepts in a clear and understandable manner.
• Basic knowledge of laboratory instruments needed to trouble shoot problems.
• Basic knowledge of personal computer for inputting patient information.
• Mandatory Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training must also be completed annually according to the Exposure Control Plan.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Exposure to stressful situations, including those involving public contact, as well as, trauma, grief and death.
• Able to wear personal protective equipment that includes latex materials or appropriate substitute if required for your position.
• Is able to move freely about facility with or without an assisted device and must be able to perform the functions of the job as outlined in the job description.
• Overall vision and hearing is necessary with or without assisted device(s).
• Frequently required to sit/stand/walk for long periods of time. May require frequent postural changes such as stooping, kneeling or crouching.
• Some exposure to blood borne pathogens and other potentially infectious material. Must follow MyMichigan Health bloodborne pathogen and TB testing as required.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks, get along with others, work independently, regular and predictable attendance and ability to stay awake.
• Overall dexterity is required including handling, reaching, grasping, fingering and feeling. May require repetition of these movements on a regular to frequent basis.
• Physical Demand Level: Light. Must be able to occasionally (0-33% of the workday) lift or carry 11-20 lbs., frequently (34-66% of the workday) 10 lbs. and or Walk/Stand/Push/Pull of Arm/Leg controls.

Equivalent Experience and Other Comments (Education)

Other Comments