Specimen Processor

UPMC•Pittsburgh, PA

13d•Onsite

About The Position

This is an entry-level role for a Specimen Processor in the UPMC laboratories, specifically supporting the Automated Testing Lab at UPMC Shadyside. The role is full-time and involves evening shifts (1:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.) with rotating weekend and holiday responsibilities. The Specimen Processor is crucial for ensuring the accuracy of patient samples by acting as the gatekeeper for all specimens entering the laboratory. Duties include aliquoting body fluid specimens, using the test code database, communicating with healthcare professionals, and ensuring timely and proper delivery of specimens. This position is ideal for individuals with customer service, retail distribution, or similar experience looking to enter the medical field. UPMC offers training for dedicated workers to advance within the laboratories, with opportunities available for various experience levels. A high school diploma, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are the primary requirements.

Requirements

High School diploma or equivalent.
Three to six months of experience in a clinical laboratory, physician's office, or other medical environment preferred, including knowledge of or experience in Medical Terminology and Laboratory Information systems.
Three to six months of experience in a service environment including call center, customer service center, or product distribution/fulfillment center preferred.
Good oral and written communication skills required.
Ability to communicate effectively with all age groups and populations of external and internal customers (as well as co-workers) both by telephone and in person.

Nice To Haves

Customer service experience
Retail distribution experience
Medical Terminology knowledge
Laboratory Information systems experience
Call center experience
Product distribution/fulfillment center experience

Responsibilities

Demonstrate service orientation approach by conveying courtesy, respect, enthusiasm and a positive attitude in work situations. Show initiative and offer assistance in the completion of the department's work.
Monitor pneumatic tube and courier deliveries to ensure timely processing of specimens.
Investigate and resolve any requesting mistakes or other specimen problems. Request assistance when needed. Complete quality forms for unacceptable specimens, requesting errors or other problems.
Separate by centrifugation. Label appropriate aliquot tubes and transfer as defined by policy; store samples at the appropriate temperature.
Determine and enter the specimen receive time into the computer. Answer all telephone inquiries concerning proper specimen collection, result, and normal range information.
Follow all regulations regarding health and safety concerning the handling of biohazardous patient samples or sharps to prevent exposure.
Verify patient specimens such as blood, urine and other body fluids with requisitions or labels, making certain that information on the specimens match any paperwork received and correct specimen.
Properly request in the Laboratory Information System laboratory information system if needed.
Prepare, package and send specimens to outside locations as needed.
Receive, sort and prioritize ALL specimens according to the laboratory policies.
Share specimens as necessary. Notify supervisor of problems and of any requests that need credited or clarified.
Disinfect the work area after shift and during shift, if needed. Participates in the orientation and training of new laboratory specimen processors.
Perform routine technical and related clerical duties as directed.