Team Lead-Laboratory

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

          Joy                         Care                      Competence                    Respect

Position Summary

The Laboratory Team Lead performs pre-analytic, analytic, and post analytic phases of laboratory testing procedures from waived to moderate and high complexity testing.  Performs laboratory procedures across multiple areas, as appropriate, and concentrates activity in one area such as transfusion, chemistry/urinalysis, hematology/coagulation, or microbiology. Designated CLIA role of Technical Consultant and/or General Supervisor. Serves as a technical resource for laboratory colleagues. Effectively recognizes, communicates, escalates, and resolves immediate patient care situations. Evaluates current practices and makes recommendations to laboratory leaders on improvements. With general direction and assignment from laboratory leadership, is responsible for, participation in, and assistance with delegated responsibilities.  Displays ability to apply excellent judgement under minimal supervision of the assigned tasks.

Bachelor’s degree in clinical laboratory science or medical technology from an accredited institution, or equivalent laboratory training and experience meeting the requirements defined in the CLIA 88’ regulations preferred.

Associate degree in medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution, or equivalent laboratory training and experience meeting the requirements defined in the CLIA 88’ regulations is required.

2-3 years of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Laboratory Technician, Histology Technologist, or Histology Technician is required.

3-5 years of experience as a Medical Laboratory Scientist, Medical Laboratory Technician, Histology Technologist, or Histology Technician is preferred.

Eligibility of certification by a nationally recognized certifying agency such as ASCP, NCA, AMT, HEW or other laboratory certifying agency.  Certification is required within 6 months of hire.

Knowledgeable of regulatory requirements and compliance, quality assurance, quality control and test principles for accurate result reporting.

Demonstrates competency in computer systems and applications required for the role.

Demonstrates excellent communication, critical thinking, diplomacy and problem-solving skills.

Has knowledge of safe laboratory practices and regulatory requirements.

Demonstrates professional judgment in evaluation, specimen integrity, result accuracy/validity and takes corrective action as necessary.

Has knowledge of laboratory instrumentation, methodology, testing and demonstrates excellent technical ability and teamwork.

Assists laboratory leadership with laboratory operations and are responsible for regulatory compliance/quality assurance of designated area. Leads and promotes process improvement activities and serves as representative on committees as required.

Performs clinical laboratory testing (CLIA waved, moderate, and high complexity) for use in diagnosis and treatment of disease, proficiency testing, quality control, instrument maintenance and validation, and testing management within the scope of validated competency.

Performs specimen registrations, specimen processing, DOT and non-DOT drug and alcohol collections, clerical functions, and may perform EKGs/place Holter monitors.

Identifies patient and verifies identification according to policy ensuring that the proper specimen is being analyzed for the proper patient and for the indicated test procedure.

Identifies problems that may adversely affect test performance or reporting of results and either corrects the problem(s) or immediately notifies laboratory leadership.

Competently draws blood and collects a variety of specimens which are appropriate to the procedure(s) requested.  Reviews all pertinent patient results to ensure all quality control and assurance mechanisms have been applied.

Identifies problems and takes corrective action including specimen rejection, recollection, and/or retesting using the same or alternate methods and/or utilizes other skills associated with the practice of clinical laboratory science to ensure validity and accuracy of testing.

Collaborates with the customers of the laboratory to promote customer satisfaction.

Adheres to all policies and procedures, quality assurance, safety and compliance standards.   Adheres to regulatory requirements as defined by accrediting agencies. Responsible for training and maintaining competencies of technical staff and students.

Responsible for monitoring and ordering supplies. 

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