Medical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist

Overview

The Acute Care Laboratory at M Health Fairview Northland Medical Center in Princeton, MN is seeking to hire a full-time Medical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist (MLS/MT) into a generalist position. The Northland Laboratory delivers testing for chemistry, hematology, coagulation, blood bank, limited microbiology, and performs inpatient and outpatient collections.  This posting is for (1) – 1.0 FTE (80 hours/2 week pay period), benefit eligible position covering both day and evening shifts. This MLS/MT will provide patient care while working a mix of eight-hour evening and day shifts, including a weekend (Saturday and Sunday) every 3 weeks, and rotating holiday shifts. Day shifts begin as early as 6am through 9am; evening shifts begin at 1430 or 1530.

Responsibilities/Job Description

Job Summary:

The Medical Laboratory Scientist/Medical Technologist (MLS/MT) functions independently in performing all major work responsibilities of professional laboratory practice.  An MLS/MT performs a wide variety of complex diagnostic and therapeutic testing, and acts as a resource for problem resolution and interpretation of results. The MLS/MT correlates data based on clinical knowledge, technical expertise, and other conditions affecting test results. The MLS/MT collaborates with the customers of the laboratory to promote customer satisfaction.  The MLS/MT participates in laboratory performance improvement activities.

Job Expectations:

Follows Established Guidelines to Obtain Specimens and Prioritize Work

• Obtains specimens from patients of all ages and degrees of physical and/or mental disability.
• Properly verifies patient identity.
• Assesses integrity of all specimens for testing.
• Verifies correct identification of specimens before testing.
• Follows established guidelines for determining priority of specimen testing and procurement.

Performs a Wide Variety of Complex Diagnostic and Therapeutic Testing

• Performs waived, moderate or high complexity testing as defined by CLIA ’88.
• Functions independently in performing all major work responsibilities of professional laboratory practice.
• Operates laboratory instrumentation and information systems according to procedure.
• Completes specified maintenance on instruments.

Recognizes Problems and Takes Appropriate Measures to Resolve Them.

• Acts as a resource for problem solving, corrective action and troubleshooting for lab procedures and unexpected events in lab operations.
• Initiates proper safety or emergency responses.
• Consults with supervisor if unable to resolve issues.
• Exercises critical thinking to maintain and improve department productivity and efficiencies.

Evaluates Testing Results for Accuracy and Appropriate Intervention.

• Determine if test results fall within normal parameters and reporting protocols. Recognizes age-specific reference ranges.
• Correlates data based on clinical knowledge, technical expertise and other conditions affecting test results.
• Takes appropriate action to recheck abnormal, discrepant, or unexpected results.
• Directly communicates abnormal and critical results to care giver.
• Obtains information from caregivers to resolve reasons for incongruent results (physiologic or methodologic).

Demonstrates understanding of and commitment to Laboratory Quality   Assurance, Performance Improvement and Laboratory Compliance Programs.

• Documents deviations and action taken.
• Documents reagent, test kit and calibrator checks.
• Recognizes and communicates values and trends that exceed the QC decision levels.  Takes action to resolve and consults with supervisor as needed.
• Participates in the lab Performance improvement program by collecting data, reviewing the results, and implementing corrective action recommendations.
• Documents compliance with regulations of governmental or voluntary regulatory agencies.
• Collaborates with the customers of the laboratory to promote customer satisfaction.

Orients and Mentors’ New Employees and Students.

• Participates in orienting individuals in routine and complex testing methodology, instrumentation, and information systems.
• Checks work prior to release.
• Completes training checklists and evaluations as appropriate.
• Reports progress and problems to supervisor/manager
• Demonstrates ability to provide care or service adjusting approaches to reflect developmental level and cultural differences of population served.

Demonstrates Commitment to Customers

• Is aware of different customer needs/desires.
• Takes action to meet customer needs/desires with respect to customer diversity.
• Helps improve processes to meet customer needs.
• Suggests and acts on ideas to improve overall customer service.
• Respects confidentiality and shares information with only those that need to know

Demonstrates Commitment to Fellow Employees

• Seeks to understand and value differences between employees.
• Treats other employees with dignity and respect.
• Demonstrates open, honest communication and behavior.
• Resolves conflict in a positive manner.
• Contributes to the productivity of the workgroup.

Demonstrates Commitment to Fairview

• Lives the values of dignity, integrity, service, and compassion.
• Supports the mission/vision.
• Speaks positively about Fairview.
• Chooses to make Fairview a better place.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Needed

• Phlebotomy and other specimen collection techniques.
• Knowledge of developmental stages and age appropriate outcomes and interventions.
• Knowledge of cultural differences and culturally appropriate approaches.
• Verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
• Customer Service standards.
• Priority setting skills
• Problem solving skills
• Working knowledge of instrumentation and ability to take corrective action.
• Working knowledge of laboratory information and reporting systems.
• Knowledge of safety protocols, ergonomics, and body mechanics.
• Knowledge of infection control principles and practices.
• Knowledge of emergency and other relevant policies and procedures.
• Critical Thinking
• Knowledge of laboratory testing and significance in human physiology.
• Knowledge of relevant factors which can influence testing results.
• Knowledge of laboratory policies and procedures that are based on CAP, COLA, AABB, FDA Blood Bank regulations and JCAHO standards, as appropriate to the work setting.
• Knowledge of quality assurance principles and practices.
• Knowledge of learning styles
• Ability to assess needs and progress of trainee
• Knowledge of developmental stages and age appropriate outcomes and interventions
• Ability to accept cultural differences

Organization Expectations, as applicable:

• Completes all initial and annual required learning relevant to the role.
• Complies with all relevant laws, regulations, and policies.
• Contributes to a safe work environment.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in a related laboratory field including the related lab practicum or equivalent routes as specified in CLIA ’88.
• Possess or be eligible to receive appropriate HHS approved laboratory certification (ASCP or AMT). HEW certification is also recognized.  If not certified, must obtain certification within 1 year of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prefer Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science or Medical Technology

Required Skills

• Phlebotomy experience

Desired Skills 

• Demonstrate the ability to work under stress in a variety of situations
• Ability to exercise independent judgment
• Demonstrate good manual dexterity