Medical Technologist

Job Description

Performs and interprets various standard and/or complex clinical laboratory tests in one or more of the laboratory sections of Microbiology, Urology, Hematology, Chemistry, and Blood Bank and their applicable sub-sections. Work requires a professional level of knowledge to read and interpret test results used by physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Incumbent is required to perform stat procedures in all laboratory areas. Participates in quality assessment and continuous quality improvement activities. Complies with all appropriate safety and infection control standards. Performs all job duties and responsibilities in a courteous and customer-focused manner according to the Hurley Family Standards of Behavior. Works under the supervision of the Administrative Director of Clinical Laboratory and Chief Pathologist or designee. Exercises working supervision over a few lower level employees.

Responsibilities

1. Prepares and determines suitability of solutions, reagents, and stains following standard laboratory formulas and procedures; may prepare variations of same for special tests.
2. Cultivates, isolates and identifies pathogenic organisms. Performs antibiotic susceptibility and sensitivity studies.
3. Performs routine and specialized blood tests and analyzes to ensure (a) an adequate supply of blood and blood products for transfusions, (b) compatibility between patient and donor, and (c) identification of a typical conditions in blood specimens.
4. Performs clinical chemical analyses on body fluids.
5. Performs standard hematologic procedures, as well as more specialized and difficult procedures including or related to: (a) types and cross-matches blood and assumes responsibility for compatibility, (b) identifying and quantifying all formed elements of the blood, such as platelets and leukocytes, (c) isolating and identifying any unusual or abnormal blood incompatibility factors, and (d) identifying and quantifying coagulation factors.
6. Performs all stat procedures available in the laboratory.
7. Records and reviews test results for accuracy; prepares test reports; relays test results and/or reports to physicians or other authorized personnel; discusses findings with physician as necessary.
8. Performs new tests and procedures during developmental stages; makes recommendations for modification and establishment of new tests and procedures.
9. Assists in the instruction and guidance of students assigned to the laboratory.
10. Cleans, maintains and performs Quality Control on laboratory equipment, glassware, instruments, and work benches; repairs laboratory equipment and instruments.
11. Participates in the development and enforcement of departmental policies and procedures, regulatory requirements, computer applications and quality assurance.
12. Performs other related duties as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Medical Technology or a related field.
• Registration as a Medical Technologist in the Registry of Medical Technologists of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.
• Working knowledge of bacteriological agents and standard chemical, bacteriological and seriological procedures.
• Working knowledge of bacteriology, serology, immunology, organic chemistry, hematology, and blood bank.
• Skill in laboratory manipulative techniques.
• Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions, formulas, and charts.
• Ability to meet the physical, mental and visual standards of the job.
• Ability and willingness to work in a manner that will not needlessly endanger the safety to one's self, other persons, and equipment.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, physicians, co-workers and other Medical Center personnel.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

• Certification as a Medical Technologist (MT) or a Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).

NOTE: Medical Technologists who complete ten (10) years of service with Hurley Medical Center shall be recognized as Senior Medical Technologists.