Medical Laboratory Technician

Job Summary: Performs laboratory testing of biological specimens in an acute setting in any/all specialty areas using manual or automated techniques. Uses independent judgment and cognitive skills to report timely and accurate laboratory results. Major Responsibilities: Performs, evaluates, and monitors laboratory tests as authorized within established protocols, selecting and performing additional procedures when indicated. Monitors workflow and makes necessary adjustments to complete work in an appropriate timeframe. Evaluates results for clinical significance, validity and appropriateness. Follows prescribed policy in the reporting and notification of test results. Performs and documents calibration and maintenance of instruments and equipment. Performs and documents quality control; evaluates quality control results and takes corrective action when indicated. Recognizes indicators of test and/or instrument malfunction and makes basic corrections by using prescribed strategies, or notifies the Medical Technologist, site coordinator or supervisor. Performs internal and external proficiency testing in the same manner as patient samples. Collects specimens from newborn, pediatric, and adult patients according to established protocol. Ascertains specimens are properly labeled and suitable for testing. Provides technical assistance to Phlebotomists and support staff. Assists in improving the quality and efficiency of laboratory procedures, policies, and processes. Ensures compliance with all accrediting agency standards, supporting CAP Regulatory requirements in an acute setting, Performs all internal and external proficiency testing in the same manner as patient samples. Performs specialty testing in areas including transfusion services, microbiology, chemistry, hematology, histology, coagulation, and flow cytometry. Supports the disease specific accreditations of an institution by meeting turn- around time goals. Provides direct support and timely, accurate laboratory results for critical care departments such as the ED, ICU and OR during a high acuity patient event. This includes transfusion services, attending codes, performing testing on irretrievable samples, tissue grinding and gram stains, mass casualty procedures, and mass transfusion procedures. Must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served. Must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs, and to provide the care needed as described in the department's policies and procedures. Age-specific information is developed further in the departmental job standards. Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required: Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification issued by the American Society for Clinical Pathology Board of Certification (ASCP BOC) needs to be obtained within 1 year, or Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT) certification issued by the American Medical Technologists (AMT) needs to be obtained within 1 year. Education Required: Associate's Degree in Clinical Lab Technician or related field. Experience Preferred: 1 to 2 years experience Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required: Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to handle stressful situations in a calm and professional manner. Maintains patient confidentiality in and out of the workplace. Demonstrates a willingness to work a flexible schedule, which may include alternate site assignment. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Must be able to operate all equipment essential in performing the job. Frequently lifts up to 10 lbs. Will occasionally be required to lift up to 50 lbs. Must be able to sit, stand and walk for the majority of the workday. May be exposed to mechanical, electrical, chemical, explosive, radioactive and/or infectious agents. Will be exposed to human blood and body fluids. Must wear appropriate lab coat, gloves, gowns and eye and face protection as needed. Must be able to handle stressful situations in a calm and professional manner. May require travel, therefore may be exposed to inclement weather and adverse road conditions. This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.