Medical Laboratory Scientist/Laboratory Tech

A Medical Laboratory Scientist or Laboratory Tech is responsible for the performance and reporting of laboratory testing ordered by physicians, including chemistry, bacteriology, serology, hematology and blood bank, in order to supply reliable and accurate information to be used in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions within the profession’s standards of practice.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supports and promotes an environment conducive with the Mission, Vision, and Values of the hospital.
• Ensures through education, training, and protocols that appropriate and properly identified specimens are collected and/or accepted for each test and test group. The identity and integrity of the specimen will be maintained throughout the test procedure.
• Performs ordered tests using microscopes, a variety of chemicals, computers, and precision instruments to perform complex analysis according to established protocols. 
• Utilizes appropriate interventions for pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients.
• Reports accurate results in a timely manner.
• Initiates appropriate action, including re-testing, according to established protocols when critical values are obtained.
• Prepares required reagents, solutions and stains following established formulas and techniques.
• Conducts evaluations and calibrations of procedures when required.   
• Performs preventative maintenance of laboratory equipment. 
• Performs electrocardiograms, Holter and event monitors when necessary.
• Assists in daily paperwork and result distribution.
• Assists in Nursing Home and Doctor office pickups. 
• Maintain confidentiality of all patients, hospital, or physician related information
• Maintain orderly condition of assigned work area.
• Is knowledgeable of general hospital and unit specific policies and procedures.
• Other duties may be assigned and are subject to change with or without prior notice.

OTHER RESPONSIBLITES

• Displays accountability for actions and decisions for the total patient care process. 
• Completes assigned daily duties.
• Accepts reassignment to other units if necessary.
• Follows expected work practices.
• Displays thoroughness and accuracy of work.
• Works in a safe manner, including reporting unsafe equipment or environment.
• Well organized, accepts assignments willingly and accomplishes them efficiently.
• Anticipates problems and suggests solutions.
• Helps as needed with duties not specifically assigned. 
• Works steadily and always keeps busy.
• Maintain knowledge and skills necessary to communicate and interact with patients, visitors, and staff in the following age groups:
• Infant, Pediatric/adolescent, Adult, and Geriatric
• Provides ongoing direction to the Laboratory Assistants to meet the workload needs of the unit through an initiative-taking team approach.
• Ability to work well with a diverse work team.
• Ability to work under pressure with time constraints.
• Ability to concentrate.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Good mental health and emotional maturity
• Good personal grooming and hygiene
• Ability to understand the use and limitations of laboratory equipment.
• Ability to acquire and maintain current knowledge of standard laboratory methods and technique. 
• Recognizes and respects the individual emotional, social, and cultural needs of patients including their religious beliefs.
• Always preserves the dignity and respect of all patients.
• Assists with daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning of work and storage areas.
• Displays knowledge of sterile and non-sterile supplies, equipment, and procedures
• Demonstrates knowledge of and practices Universal Precautions
• Possession of a genuine interest and concern for patient population that is served.

(The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, and indeed additional responsibilities may be assigned, as required, by Hillsboro Health.)

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• Has earned an associate degree in laboratory science, or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution. 
• Has earned a bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science/Medical   Technology/Clinical Laboratory Science or equivalent education as defined by CLIA
• Ability to pass specific competencies for this position.
• Proficient oral and written communication                     
• 1-year general hospital experience helpful

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• MLS or MLT Registry preferred. 
• CPR certification - new staff will be required to certify within six months of their employment, if no current CPR card is available.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Prolonged, extensive, or considerable standing and walking
• Required to climb, balance, stoop, and kneel.
• Required to use arms, hands, and fingers for repetitive grasping, pulling, and pushing and feeling.
• Frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Any workload exceeding 50 pounds will require assistance.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Works in well lighted, climate-controlled setting
• May be exposed to communicable diseases, hazardous chemicals, harmful physical agents, hypodermic/IV needles, unpleasant sights, odors, and materials. 
• The noise level in the work environment is quiet to moderate.

CORPORATE COMPLIANCE

Receives training and/or attends necessary meetings to meet the criteria as outlined in Hillsboro Health’s Corporate Compliance Plan and Code of Conduct. Understands the responsibilities related to compliance and knows how to contact the Corporate Compliance Officer should there be any instance of question or concern regarding fraud and/or abuse.