LABORATORY TECHNOLOGIST

Independence Health System•Latrobe, PA

About The Position

The Laboratory Technologist applies clinical laboratory science knowledge, analytical skills, and judgment to produce accurate and timely results. The role uses high-complexity methods and instrumentation and works independently across multiple laboratory areas. The incumbent is scheduled according to operational needs, which may include rotating shifts, standby, and on-call arrangements. Local travel between system locations may be expected.

Requirements

Associate of Science degree or higher from an accredited institution in chemical, physical, biological, or clinical laboratory science, or medical technology; alternatively, equivalent laboratory training and experience meeting CLIA 88 requirements for individuals performing high-complexity testing.
Knowledge of medical terminology and laboratory information systems.
Functional skills with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook.
Strong leadership, organizational, independent and critical-thinking skills, and sound judgment.
Knowledge of legal aspects and liability of nursing practice.
Ability to communicate complex and/or controversial topics and concepts to a wide and diverse audience.
Act 33 clearance with renewal.
Act 34 clearance with renewal.
Act 73 FBI clearance with renewal.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience within a clinical laboratory.
ASCP certification is preferred.

Responsibilities

Procure, prepare, and process specimens using approved techniques and procedures; perform phlebotomy according to established procedures and customer service expectations.
Receive specimens into the LIS, verify orders and priorities, validate orders and specimen appropriateness, ensure required documentation, and communicate pertinent information.
Maintain specimen identity and integrity; recognize, investigate, resolve, and document specimen tracking, rejection, and irretrievable specimen issues.
Research unusual reference test orders, arrange appropriate specimen collection, complete documentation, and communicate information effectively.
Package specimens for transport according to regulations and protocols; retain instrument printouts and specimens according to policy.
Prepare and maintain reagents, consumables, and adequate supply levels; monitor utilization and report unusual situations to the supervisor.
Perform preventative and corrective maintenance and take action to prevent operational problems and delays in patient care.
Perform low-, moderate-, and high-complexity assays; evaluate and interpret results using sound judgment, and determine and validate instrument settings and adjustments.
Perform assigned laboratory testing using established protocols while considering accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, turnaround time, and cost management.
Assess test methods and results for procedural validity and accuracy; investigate suspected instrument or methodology malfunctions and reassess patient data as needed.
Demonstrate competency with instrumentation and methods in assigned areas and maintain in-depth knowledge of procedures in at least two laboratory sections.
Perform and document quality control, maintenance, and variances; participate in quality assurance, competency assessment, quality management, and appropriate use of laboratory services.
Compose correlation studies and QC reports, maintain monthly logs, and evaluate QC data to assist the supervisor in assessing method accuracy, reproducibility, and validity.
Participate in readiness activities for CAP, JCAHO, OSHA, and DOH compliance.
Use HIS and LIS functions to access patient and order information, process work or supply orders, accession and receive specimens, report results, and monitor testing; participate in initial and monthly validation of LIS and instrument interfaces.
Evaluate laboratory data and specimen integrity to determine whether recollection or follow-up testing is needed; correlate results with patient history, diagnosis, disease state, and other clinical information, and recognize inconsistent or questionable orders and results.
Redirect testing to backup or secondary methods and work to resolve primary testing issues; recognize the need for follow-up or reflex testing.
Interact with healthcare providers regarding interpretation, appropriateness, quality, accuracy, and procedural requirements of laboratory testing.
Assist with evaluation and development of new methods and instruments, recommend workflow improvements, and help implement operational changes.
Report and document critical values and read-back verifications according to policy; enter reflex testing codes into the LIS for billing when appropriate.
Follow the laboratory and section-specific Environmental Control Plan and perform other duties as assigned.