Medical Lab Technician

Department Overview

This position provides technical support in the Flow Cytometry Laboratory to complete laboratory testing for OHSU hospital and clinic patients. The incumbent will be a qualified Medical Laboratory Technician with generalist experience or equivalent capable of performing laboratory testing and associated activities needed to support the technical services provided by the Flow Cytometry Lab.

The person in this position is authorized to perform testing in the following areas: bone marrow assists and slide staining, moderate and high complexity testing. Specimen processing, and result reporting is performed independently, after appropriate training. Supervisor or director review of results is required in situations dictated by policy or procedures.

The person filling this position will be of professional demeanor and perform their duties with an attitude, which will best serve the clients of the department.

Function/Duties of Position

• Performs testing with accuracy, speed, and efficiency. Follows written procedures and policies.
• Bone marrow Bench
  • Schedules appointments for bone marrow assists.
  • Performs bone marrow assistance at the bedside for physicians performing bone marrow aspiration and biopsy, according to written procedures.
  • Observes the aspiration, determines if the specimen is adequate, prepares slides, prepares or preserves specimen for additional testing as needed.
  • Stains slides using both manual and automated methods and prepares specimen, slides, and paperwork for pathologist’s review.
  • Prepares reagents, performs quality control checks, and troubleshoots procedures as needed.
  • Checks all slides for adequate staining and appropriate morphology 30 Yes
• Prepares samples for testing. Determines acceptability of specimens and results. Repeats analysis as necessary to insure accuracy. Reports test results via computer and telephone.
• Performs all computer functions using EPIC LIS and HIS software.
• Answers telephone requests for laboratory information.
• Calibrates, maintains and troubleshoots laboratory instruments and procedures.
• Trains new employees, students and residents.
• Performs and evaluates quality control data to determine functionality of instruments and procedures. Reviews questionable data with technologist.
• OTHER DUTIES:
  • Assists with miscellaneous technical administrative functions to support daily laboratory activities.
    • Performs inventory of reagents and supplies.
    • Reviews critical, summary and outstanding lists.
    • Performs projects assigned by lead worker, technical coordinator or lab manager.
  • Completes competency training, annual review of policy and procedure manuals, and safety review. Attends and participates in staff meetings and training sessions.
  • Performs requirements for Staff Members as outlined in Compliance Roles and Responsibilities in OHSU Hospitals and Clinics and understands and complies with the Code of Conduct, OHSU and departmental policies and procedures, and other applicable procedures, rules and regulations.
  • Communicates and works effectively as part of a team, and interacts with a variety of clients including doctors, nurses, laboratory staff and patients, maintaining a customer service focus at all times.
  • Performs job responsibilities ethically, professionally, and with personal integrity, and functions as part of the team exhibiting excellent communication, teamwork and customer service skills.
  • Attends and participates in staff meetings and training sessions.

Required Qualifications

• Completion of a 2 year accredited program in Medical Laboratory Technician training plus MLT (ASCP) or AMT certification completed within 90 days of hire; depending on date of training, different continuing education requirements will apply.
• OR Bachelor's degree in a chemical or biological science, and two years of Laboratory Technical Assistant training/experience performing standardized laboratory tests in the specialty area(s) in which high complexity testing will be performed; MLT(ASCP) or AMT certification preferred; depending on date of training, different continuing education requirements will apply.
• General knowledge of laboratory terminology, equipment, materials and techniques, regulations and safety.
• Skill in handling of laboratory specimens, record keeping and laboratory equipment.
• Skill in identifying cells and cell morphology.
• Skill in using several different computer systems, including: word processing, dedicated LIS/HIS, etc.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions accurately, and operate and maintain standard laboratory equipment.
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