Medical Technologist I - Hematology

University of Illinois Chicago•Chicago, IL

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Medical Technologist I performs a variety of tests of a moderately or highly complex nature on patient samples, and performs quality control for hematology, coagulation, urinalysis, stool, and body fluids procedures based on laboratory procedures and policies. Such Hematology Laboratory testing may be performed by manual methods involving technical, scientific knowledge, and interpretation skills; and by automated analyzers involving ability to maintain and troubleshoot. Medical Technologist I assists in training of laboratory personnel, new employees, medical residents and students in the principles and techniques of medical technology. The Hematology Laboratory has the following discipline-specific areas: Complete Blood Counts Testing, Manual Differentials Testing, Hemostasis Testing, Urinalysis Testing, Body Fluid Analysis Testing, Automated, High Volume Testing, Miscellaneous manual Hematologic and Hemostasis Methods Testing.

Requirements

High school graduation or equivalent.
Meets basic standards and qualifications for laboratory testing personnel under Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), Subpart M, Section 493.1489.
Bachelor's degree in Science that meets the CLIA requirements to perform high complexity testing.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of correct procedures for handling potentially infectious specimen material of patient origin so as not to contaminate self, coworkers or the work area.
Able to identify problems of a technical and/or clinical nature, referring the problem to senior and/or supervisory staff in a timely manner.
Work requires a complete understanding of the theoretical applications in Hematology, including cell identification.
Ability to examine a slide and concentrate for long periods of time utilizing a microscope and physical ability to perform microscopic examinations and have normal color perception.
Ability to make accurate observations.
Ability to independently plan and complete work.
A thorough knowledge and understanding of all quality control and safety procedures is essential.
Able to maintain productive communication with peers, supervisors, health care staff and visitors.
Understand the function of the medical laboratories in the health care environment.
Have knowledge of the importance of the flexibility necessary for work performance within the laboratory setting and the importance of a professional appearance and attitude.
Understand the applications and purpose of laboratory quality assurance programs and procedures.
Able to identify problems of a technical and/or clinical nature, referring the problem to supervisory staff in a timely manner.

Responsibilities

Performs moderately and highly complex tests by various analyzers in the Laboratory and/or by manual methods on various specimen sources such as blood, urine, body fluids, stool, etc. using established procedures and policies.
Reviews test results before reporting using technical and scientific knowledge to recognize and verify result validity and clinical relevance.
Follows laboratory established procedures and policies, and notify approved care givers of critical results following compliance and HIPPA standards.
Performs established quality assurance procedures (quality control testing, instrument function checks and calibrations) maintains appropriate documentation and reports irregularities to supervisor.
Operates, troubleshoots, and resolves instrument’s technical problems and documents corrective action whenever possible.
Responds appropriately to error flags for critical results, delta checks, required dilutions, and result patterns.
Notifies physician(s) of life threatening results.
Assesses accuracy and validity of obtained test results by applying knowledge of relevant scientific principles, recognizes changes that are critical to patient care, identifies probable causes for irregular and atypical findings.
Receives a wide variety of patient specimens arriving at the laboratory for testing.
Performs the procedures necessary to prepare specimens for testing or referral to other laboratories.
Maintains a neat, orderly and safe working environment in the laboratory while adhering to all guidelines of OHSA's Blood borne Pathogens Control Act.
Adheres to Costumer service guidance, interacts with physicians, patients, staff, visitors and customers via telephone conversations and in person in a professional and helpful manner.
Participates in CAP proficiency testing.
Performs periodic proficiency (internal and external) testing, participates in data collection and monitoring of quality assurance monitors as determined by department and section policy.
Completes Quality Assurance Reports.
Participates in the laboratory Continuing Education (CE) program annually.
Performs resulting, verification, confirming, and other LIS laboratory related functions on patients results through the UI Hospital LIS and automation middleware information system including: instruments checks, status reports, and basic maintenance and recovery functions.
Assists in training of laboratory personnel, new employees, medical residents and students in the principles and techniques of medical technology.
Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.