Medical Laboratory Technician

SUMMARY: Precisely and accurately performs a variety of technical procedures (chemistry, hematology, urinalysis, and venipuncture). These procedures may be carried out with the use of manual, semi-automated or automated methodologies and includes accepted quality control procedures, as well as carrying out appropriate proficiency testing.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES

• Demonstrates the ability to accurately and precisely follow established laboratory procedures.
• Reports panic values within 10 minutes of test completion.
• Documents that panic values were reported to the requesting healthcare provider.
• Verifies that quality control values are acceptable before testing samples.
• Notifies laboratory supervisor when quality control problems exist.
• Verifies that the proper specimen is being analyzed for the proper patient and for the indicated test procedures.
• Performs daily and routine maintenance as required and makes note of corrective action or problem.
• Labels reagents with date of receipt, date opened, and expiration date.
• Organizes work in order that procedures are performed within acceptable turnaround times.
• Demonstrates ability to coordinate a simultaneous series of tests with accuracy and shows flexibility in adjusting test scheduling in response to stat orders and variations in patient workload.
• Verifies completed test results in a timely fashion to ensure availability of test results.
• Demonstrates a thorough understanding of established policies and procedures within the laboratory as outlined in the instruction manuals.
• Demonstrates the ability to differentiate results of various tests and determines the accuracy of these results.
• Recognizes any unexpected day-to-day variation in test results and attempts to investigate the reason for the variation.
• Performs repeat tests when results are abnormal or questionable and consults with either the laboratory director or supervisor.
• Judges the adequacy of submitted specimens and reorders specimen as necessary.
• Reruns all panic values.
• Documents any unscheduled maintenance and notifies the laboratory supervisor.
• Discards reagent/supplies at expiration dates and in the proper container.
• Performs and documents corrective action when Q.C. is unacceptable.
• Demonstrates the ability to assess a given situation, consider alternatives and choose an appropriate course of action.
• Works well with physicians and others in a position with authority.
• Provides direction and assistance to patients, families, and visitors in a courteous manner.
• Respects the confidentiality of patient records and uses discretion with discussing patient results/matters.
• Handles telephone information requests with courtesy and accuracy.
• Performs duties in an independent manner with little or no direct supervision.
• Suggests changes to the laboratory supervisor that would improve the laboratory operation.
• Performs work within the established laboratory safety and infection control policies and procedures, practices infection control and chemical hazard procedures for protection of self, patients, and clinic personnel.
• Understands fire, safety, and evacuation procedures.
• Consistently strives to be an effective and productive member of the clinic.
• Must have predictable and consistent attendance

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• There are no supervisory responsibilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Capable of performing the laboratory procedures and necessary quality controls associated with these tests.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Valid and Unrestricted MLT State License

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Must be able to stand for 8 to 10 hours a day
• Requires regular walking, bending, pushing, pulling, and lifting
• Must be able to lift at least 10-15 lbs

• Must be able to assist patients with transfers from chair to wheelchair, to exam tables, and back to wheelchair/chair
• Must be able to assist patients with turning/positioning on exam table
• Must be able to push patients in wheelchair
• Must be able to manipulate objects reaching, grasping, handling
• Must exhibit good communication skills understand, respond, and translate into action

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Clinical setting; exposure to communicable diseases, medical preparations and other conditions common to a clinical environment.