Laboratory-Clinical Laboratory Scientist I (Staff) FT/Variable

JOB SUMMARY: Performs all laboratory tests necessary for diagnosis and treatment of patients at the request of attending physician(s). Is responsible for reporting results, which are accurate as substantiated by the use of appropriate controls. Performs and demonstrates proficiency and understanding of routing procedures for all areas of the clinical laboratory with minimal supervision. Employee will individualize patient care based upon the age appropriate and developmental needs. Should be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients serve on the employee's unit. Performs other duties as assigned.

PERFORMANCE DIMENSIONS AND TASKS

Essential Function

1. Completes required tests, and/or observations of patient's specimens, blood samples or other products required for testing.

a. Makes sure quality control is performed and that QC is within limits.

b. Results are calculated and/or tabulated accurately; reports reflect attention to detail.

c. Alerts supervisor when abnormalities or irregularities are encountered in testing, if required.

d. Department policies and procedures are followed.

2. Verifies that appropriate specimen is being analyzed for correct patient and indicated test.

a. Checks patient's name against request form.

3. Accommodates STAT order or other orders as requested.

a. Reports STAT results within one hour or as soon as available.

b. Reports critical values to physicians as soon as available.

• Verifies critical values to ensure accuracy of testing.

c. Ensures that appropriate tests are ordered and charged and routes to appropriate department; provides adequate billing information.

4. Records work performed; may prepare summaries or statistical data.

a. Gives accurate attention required data and reports.

b. Bookkeeping is kept current and reports are submitted by due date.

5. Inspects and calibrates instruments and equipment used in work

a. Records information on appropriate forms as required.

b. Performs required maintenance procedures for various pieces of equipment.

6. Assists others in the completion of all laboratory work assignments.

a. Responds positively to changes in the work schedule. Continually uses time to departmental advantage.

b. Willingly helps laboratory assistants in obtaining specimen when they are unable to do so.

c. When time permits, helps co-worker to complete work assignment; or performs other tasks requested.

d. May assist in teaching new employees and non-professionals.

e. Demonstrates role model attributes and the professional image required to develop the skills and knowledge of others.

7. Maintains and fosters expertise in laboratory skills and knowledge

a. Keeps license current and attends approved workshops and regularly reviews professional journals and textbooks.

b. May research and develop new procedures.

c. Carefully outlines evaluation procedures and reports results accurately.

d. Washes hands before and after each patient contact and between tests

8. Performs inventory of supplies and reagents as needed.

a. Notifies supervisor if supplies are not adequate to meet demand.

9. Prepares specimens for mailing or delivery to other laboratories.

a. Specimens are carefully prepared and labeled and addressed correctly.

10. Performs quality control procedures.

a. Ensures the accuracy of results reported

b. Actively participates in laboratory Performance Improvement Program.

QUALIFICATIONS

Licensing Requirements:

• Current California Clinical Laboratory Scientist license - Required
• Current National Registry license - Preferred

Skill Requirements:

• Proficiency in the routine work of all laboratory departments is required; expanded knowledge and interest in one or more areas is desirable.

Language Requirements:

• Bilingual (English/ Spanish) - Preferred

Physical Demands:

• Stands, walks, sits, bends, reaches overhead, crouches, kneels, balances, pushes, and pulls when performing assigned duties.
• Must be able to sit up to 4 hours and walk/stand for 7 hours or more per day.
• Must be able to use hands repetitively for 6 hours or more.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.

Special Demands:

• Willing to perform repetitive tasks.
• Ability to work well with others, ability to work under pressured conditions and give precise and accurate measurements, and to perform a variety of assigned duties.

Exposure to Hazards:

• Exposure to blood, body fluids, infectious disease/needle puncture wounds, chemical reagents.

DISCLAIMER: The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.