Medical Laboratory Scientist I

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

          Joy                         Care                      Competence                    Respect

Position Summary

This position is responsible for conducting a variety of tests on patient samples (blood, various body fluids, cells, and tissue, etc.) to detect the presence or absence of health conditions.  Using biomedical instrumentation, microscopes, and computers to study samples obtained from patients, the Medical Laboratory Scientist provides data to physicians and health care providers for use in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college/university including courses in biological science, chemistry and mathematics, AND successful completion of a National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS), accredited Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) or Medical Technologist (MT) program OR Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and bachelor's degree with 2 years full time lab experience in an accredited lab.

Experience in an accredited lab is preferred.

Medical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Technologist or eligibility for certification by a nationally recognized certifying agency such as:• American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)• National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA)• American Medical Technologies (AMT)• Department of Health, Education and Welfare (HEW) • or other laboratory certifying agency is required.  Colleagues hired prior to January 1, 2020 are exempt from this requirement. 

Certification must be received within 180 days of hire.Physician Enterprise:  Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) certification is preferred.

Demonstrated problem solving skills.Strong verbal communication and listening skills.Ability to quickly build a positive rapport with patients.Ability to work within tight timeframes and meet strict deadlines.Quickly troubleshoots and resolves problems.Demonstrates a high level of accuracy, even under pressure.

Obtains/collects a variety of specimens which are appropriate to the procedure(s) requested.

Performs qualitative and quantitative analysis on various body fluids in accordance with the procedure manual(s).Accessions specimens, orders tests, reports/records results.

Participates in the evaluation of methodologies and test development.

Recognizes abnormal test result(s)/inappropriate test result(s) and documents any action taken.

Performs instrument maintenance, quality control procedures and insures proper recording/documentation for each.

Adheres to all policies and procedures, quality assurance, safety and compliance standards.

Maintains technical competence by utilizing available continuing education opportunities.

Participates in the instruction of new colleagues, students, medical staff and other affiliate colleagues.

Functions as "charge person" as assigned by or in the absence of the manager.

Communicates effectively with colleagues and other health care professionals.

Participates in patient/family education as appropriate to position responsibilities.

Maintains proficiency in assigned area and accommodates various shift assignments.

Monitors inventory of supplies and orders when necessary.

Possess the information, skill, and understanding of the work to be performed.  Actively participates in continuing education opportunities and maintains certifications, licensure as appropriate.

Reduces the risk of healthcare acquired infections through compliance with current CDC hand hygiene guidelines and facility policies including the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), if applicable.  Utilizes standard precautions during patient contact and when handling contaminated materials.  Demonstrates compliance with National Patient Safety Goals.

Complies with all standards, policies and procedures including dress code, attendance and punctuality.  Attends required in-services and meetings and completes all mandatory competencies by deadline.  Commits to keeping all patient, student or colleague information confidential and maintains excellent interpersonal communication with the health care team colleagues.

Emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care-attending to body, mind, and spirit while upholding ethical principles with patient care and all other aspects of work.  Actively involves the patient and family in decisions about care.  Promotes quality care by participating in organizational councils/committees and/or support of related process.  Documents services provided to patients in the electronic medical record in accordance with policy and requirements. 

The purpose of this job description is to provide a summary of the major responsibilities performed by colleagues in this position. Colleagues may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description.  Variances in job duties performed may exist between facilities, and colleagues may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical, Mental and Environmental Requirements Category:

Allied Health

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting

X

50 lbs

Carrying

X

50 lbs

Pushing

X

50 lbs

Pulling

X

50 lbs

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Use of Hands/Dexterity

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Extreme Cold

X

Extreme Heat

X

Humid

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Positions in this category may experience a temperature change in his/her work environment.

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Other