Laboratory Technician

Job Summary:

Performs chemical microscopic and bacteriologic tests to provide data for use in treatment and diagnosis of disease applying techniques used in fields of bacteriology or mycology, hematology and/or chemical examinations.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Receives specimens from laboratory or obtains such body materials as urine, blood, pus and tissue directly from patient and makes quantitative and qualitative chemical analysis and does routine cultures.
• Performs blood tests and study morphology of blood.
• Obtains blood specimen for performance of all hematological examinations and clinical chemical analysis requested for each patient.
• Performs routine hematological examinations following established laboratory procedures, methods and techniques using microscope and centrifuge.
• Performs routine procedures for macro and microscopic analysts of urine.
• Records and reports results of tests and examinations performed.
• Identifies and stores specimens which require further analysis.
• Cleans and maintains equipment and instruments used in performance of tests and examinations. Reports malfunctions and needs for repair to supervisor.
• Performs additional follow-up examinations, tests and analysis according to established laboratory procedures or as requested.
• May serve as Testing Personnel as defined by CLIA 88 for High Complexity Testing. The testing personnel are responsible for specimen processing, test performance and for reporting test results. Each individual performs only those high complexity tests that are authorized by the laboratory director and require a degree of skill commensurate with the individuals education, training or experience, and technical abilities. Each individual performing high complexity testing must follow the laboratorys procedures for specimen handling and processing, test analyses, reporting and maintaining records of patient test results; maintain records that demonstrate that proficiency testing samples are tested in the same manner as patient specimens; adhere to the laboratorys quality control policies, document all quality control activities, instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed; Follow the laboratorys established policies and procedures whenever test systems are not within the laboratorys established acceptable levels of performance; Be capable of identifying problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of test results and either must correct the problems or immediately notify the supervisor; and document all corrective actions taken when test systems deviate from the laboratorys established performance specifications. If not qualified to perform testing independently, must perform high complexity testing only under the onsite direct supervision of a supervisor.
• Forwards laboratory samples to Medical Center for confirmation and/or analysis and forwards reports to physician for diagnosis (for outlying clinics only).
• Trains and monitors Laboratory Assistants and student Medical Technologists as requested.