SUMMARY:
Reporting to the Laboratory Manager, the Lead Laboratory Technician is responsible for pediatric, adolescent, and adult phlebotomy, performing laboratory tests, participating in quality control procedures including instrument calibration and troubleshooting. Is also responsible for general maintenance of the laboratory. In the absence of the Laboratory Manager, s/he performs administrative duties essential to the lab.
GENERAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Performs daily quality assurance activities according to department quality standards:
Performs diagnostic testing in the various testing fields: hematology, chemistry, bacteriology, and urinalysis.
Assists the laboratory manager with the assigning and administration of proficiency testing in the various testing fields as directed by an approved program to maintain laboratory compliance with state and federal regulatory agencies.
Performs proficiency testing as assigned.
Performs phlebotomy: venipuncture, finger sticks, and heel sticks on pediatric, adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients as needed.
Identifies specimens appropriately and processes specimens for acquisition or disposition according to standard practice.
Performs daily quality control and documents results and any corrective action taken.
Performs calibration and systems verification procedures and documents results.
Monitors temperature controls and documents findings.
Performs daily, weekly, and monthly maintenance of equipment and documents findings and any corrective action taken.
Advises medical staff on proper collection techniques and correct quantities for specimens.
Instructs patients on pre-appointment procedures for special tests.
Performs laboratory maintenance, procurement, and clerical tasks:
Maintains work areas and equipment in clean and orderly condition following infection control procedures.
Ensures proper disposal of contaminated and hazardous materials and specimens.
Reports unusual incidents or circumstances, hazards, and patient conditions to manager.
Keeps equipment in working order to ensure reliability of tests according to departmental practices and procedures.
Troubleshoots instrumentation. Ensures that no patient results will be reported until all corrective actions have been taken and the test system is functioning properly.
Checks inventory of laboratory supplies and orders sufficient quantities to prevent delays in testing.
Catalogues and stocks supplies according to preservation standards.
Records, files, and distributes laboratory reports.
Maintains laboratory statistics.
Collaborates with Point of Care Testing (POCT) Coordinator in the Following Areas:
Developing and implementing Point of Care Policies and Procedures.
Assist with training and competency of laboratory and non-laboratory staff.
Report monthly findings and issues of non-compliance to laboratory manager as well as test site manager.
Assist with monthly review and evaluation of Point of Care Quality in each of the testing areas, ensuring compliance with Joint Commission Standards regarding patient testing and quality control.
Department Communications and Professional Standards:
Communicates significant test results directly to provider/nurse in a timely manner.
Reports any problems to be followed up to the next shift.
Interpersonal relationships with patients, visitors, physicians, and fellow employees are fostered in a courteous, professional, and friendly manner.
Should be neat, well-groomed, observe health center’s dress code and wear an identification badge while on duty.
Ensures all designated health center information is kept confidential at all times.
Recognizes and performs such duties as offering assistance to department staff when own assignments are completed:
Works overtime or adjusts personal schedule to accommodate work overload when requested and accommodated by his/her schedule.
Participates in review and evaluation of service to include reducing costs.
Assists with special reports and projects when requested.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Performs administrative duties in the absence of the Lab Manager:
Supervises staff and delegates responsibilities as appropriate.
Ensures that all lab tests are accurate and results are delivered to providers in a timely manner.
Reviews daily quality control and test systems. Makes decisions on the acceptability of QC and acceptable levels of instrument performance.
Performs other duties as assigned and/or necessary.
REQUIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:
Education: High School diploma or equivalent.
Licensure/Certification: Registration with ASCP, NCA, HEW or approved by licensing/registration body preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 2 years previous phlebotomy and laboratory experience required. Previous supervisory experience preferred.
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