Medical Laboratory Scientist

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Thayer County Health Services, Hebron, NE

POSITION SUMMARY:

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.

SUPERVISION: Reports to Director/Supervisor of Laboratory.

SHIFT: Days, Non-Exempt, Call Rotation

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
• Must possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in the field of Medical Technology or Medical Laboratory Science. Needs 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.

PRINCIPAL 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.
• Ensure procedures are adhered to so that tests are performed accurately.
• Participate in proficiency testing and ensure 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.
• Is required to read procedure manuals for all available tests annually.
• Works closely with a reference lab to ensure high-quality testing, correct billing and timely reports for send out tests.
• Coordinates ordering and receiving laboratory supplies.
• Collects data, prepares reports, answers correspondence, and compiles statistics for administration.
• Develop and maintain a professional working relationship with the medical staff.
• Maintain an environment of transparency, respect, and open communication with other departments to ensure quality service to patients.
• Maintain 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.
• Attend seminars/workshops pertaining to the department. Attend 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 requirements.
• 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 patients 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 requires 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.
• Develop and maintain an environment of safety.
• Is required to review, validate and enter written orders into the LIS.
• Is required to register patients into the LIS for their lab appointment.
• Promotes an environment free of drama, focused on patient testing and care.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:
• Maintains and promotes good health practices.
• Will conform to TCHS procedures and policies.
• Will perform all duties as described by the job description within the scope of licensure.
• Maintains current professional license in accordance with state law.
• Does not discuss patient matters such as medical treatment, diagnosis or history outside of the clinical setting in; keeping in compliance of HIPAA.
• Understand and comply with the requirements of Thayer County Health Services' Compliance Program, including, but not limited to, the Code of Conduct, the Compliance Manual. All supporting policies for compliance and compliance plans.
• Participate in all education and training programs regarding compliance as required by organizational policy and as requested by supervisor.
• Demonstrate formal greetings with patients, visitors and TCHS staff.
• Willingly accepts new responsibilities and cooperates with implementation of change.
• Dresses in a neat, clean uniform for patient care; maintain high personal hygiene standards.
• Demonstrates respect, integrity, compassion, and excellence through a "We Care" philosophy with all patients, visitors, and TCHS staff.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
• Indoor, smoke free, climate-controlled environment.
• Possible exposure to unpleasant odors or fumes, intermittent unpleasant conditions, liquids, and chemicals.
• Must be able to tolerate a moderate noise level.
• Possible exposure and contact with bio-hazardous materials and communicable diseases, cuts, punctures, infections and chemicals.
• Frequent contact with doctors, patients and their families, and employees of other departments.