Medical Lab Technician / Technologist

Medical Laboratory Technician/Technologist

**Requires phlebotomy proficiency**

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Under the general supervision of the Laboratory Manager, the Medical Laboratory Technician/Technologist (MLT/MT) works collaboratively with the Laboratory Manager, Phlebotomist and other administration in development and implementation of laboratory policies and procedures.  The MLT/MT independently, accurately and precisely performs and evaluates a variety of routine and specialized laboratory tests, performs phlebotomy and clerical duties as needed.  The MLT/MT utilizes and supports accepted policies and procedures for both the department and facility.  The individual must communicate well with peers, medical staff, patients, families and visitors, and maintain good inter and intra-departmental relationships.  The MLT/MT must be able to demonstrate leadership abilities, if needed, and demonstrate the knowledge and skills needed in serving patients of all ages.  The ability to interpret test results and apply them for each specific patient and his/her needs as described in department policies is essential.

Projects a professional demeanor and appearance while maintaining the confidentiality of patients, coworkers, and facility information and adhering to the HIPAA policy.  Reports, in good faith, any known or suspected activity that appears to violate laws, rules, regulations or the SP Code of Conduct.  Fulfills annual continuing education requirements.

Personal attributes include the ability to be self-directed; demonstrates accountability, professionalism, and receptiveness to change; seeks guidance, direction, and assistance when needed.  Works under stress and in situations that demand patience, stamina, endurance, and tact while providing impeccable service.  Fosters an attitude of teamwork and willingness to assist others and does not refuse performing other job duties as requested.  Set's priorities, responds timely to issues, which require a decision, and ensure desired results are achieved by means of consistent follow through.

Patient Population:

 The patient population served by South Texas Spine & Surgical Hospital is a minimum of 12 years and/or of adult stature to geriatric patients requiring or seeking pain and/or surgical intervention.

Physical Requirements:

 May be expected to lift up to 50 pounds.  May be expected to push or pull 150-300 pounds with assistance.  Work is of medium demand; walking or standing most of the time while on duty.  Visual and auditory acuity and manual dexterity essential to performing designated duties required.  Optimal auditory acuity required.  Manual dexterity involving the handling of equipment and instruments or armamentarium is essential to performing assigned duties.  Physical conditions are clean, neat and well lit.  May be subjected to unpleasant sights and odors, stressful situations, hazardous chemicals, or infectious diseases where judgment as to precautions needed to be taken is essential.  Climate control and ambient temperature variances may be experienced and required by patient care.  Hours of duty may be irregular or unexpectedly extended due to the requirements of the job.

OSHA Exposure Classification:

 Job Category I.  Direct contact with blood or other body fluids to which standard precautions apply.  Personal protective equipment is made available and must be worn.

Qualifications:

• Demonstrates eligibility for employment in the U.S.
• Specialized training after high school, specifically, an associate degree from a two-year training program.
• Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technician/Medical Technologist with ASCP, AMT, or equivalent agency is preferred.
• BLS required, or obtained within 30 days of hire date.
• Experience in performing routine tasks in the laboratory to include instrument maintenance, specimen collection, and specimen processing. 
• Evidence of proficiency with lab systems and equipment.
• Knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field.
• Ability to read, write and communicate effectively in English, with additional languages preferred.
• Demonstrates ability to comprehend written and oral instructions.
• Willingness to participate in goal-setting and educational activities for his/her own professional advancement and that of others.
• Must be computer literate with basic fundamental computer skills that are required to perform essential job related duties.

Duties and Responsibilities:

PEOPLE

1. Facilitates the development of appropriate working relationships with facility administrators, staff, physicians and patients.
2. Demonstrates effective verbal and written communication skills with employees and management.
3. Demonstrates ability to solve problems timely and constructively; maintains focus on the situation and not personalities-gathers facts before reacting.
4. Demonstrates skills as a team player. Shows appropriate accountability for the Laboratory Department.  Works closely with all departments to establish a positive relationship with confidentiality in the daily operating schedule.
5. Participates in meetings as requested for informative and educational purposes to build appropriate communication and effective team environment throughout.
6. Provides direct patient care in clinical areas as needed and demonstrates necessary clinical competence.

SERVICE

1. Establishes and maintains exceptional services to all customers including physicians, patients and employees with the goal of delighting all customers.
2. Participates in service recovery by taking ownership of the situation and correcting problems. Strives to promote customer satisfaction and follow through with the situation to correct the problem.  Keeps customers informed of progress related to clinical operations and provides comfort, information and assistance during the process.
3. Develops and maintains a culture of service in department, connecting organizational values to actions. Sets example for team members by participating in service initiatives and encourages others to do so as well.
4. Models appropriate interaction with physicians, patients and staff to ensure high level of service in all areas of responsibility.
5. Participates in professional and community organizations/events to represent the facility as appropriate.
6. Assists with employee competencies through Laboratory In-services.

QUALITY

1. Assures the delivery of quality clinical care through participation in SP benchmarking programs.
2. Assures facility clinical policies and procedures are appropriate and meet standards
3. Assures patient safety, through continuing education of personnel, equipment and overall physical plant safety.
4. Assures that all aspects of the Laboratory operations are in compliance with all required data and entered accurately and timely for all regulatory agencies.

FINANCE

1. Participation in development of clinical operating budget, capital budget, staffing and volume projections.
2. Assists in the development of plans for cost containment in the Laboratory and implements and oversees the same to ensure successful completion of goals.
3. Ensures appropriate staffing as well as fiscal responsibility.

GROWTH

1. Establishes and maintains communication with physicians and clinical leaders in the community to ensure effective strategic and tactical approaches in the market.
2. Participates in regular and effective planning meetings with the Medical Staff, Community Clinical Committees and employees.
3. Sets yearly goals for self, creates strategies and established time frames to accomplish goals.