Job Summary:

Provides technical support to the lab by receiving/processing requisitions/specimens and performing specified lab tests according to standard operating procedures. Performs bone marrow collection/processing from various sites with in the hospital or campus. Responds to phone requests.

Demonstrates through behavior Decatur Morgan Hospital’s mission, vision and values.

Key Responsibilities / Essential Functions

1. Receives, accessions and processes specimens according to established protocols. Verifies specimen acceptability with no more than 5 minor errors.
2. Verifies the accurate identification of specimens by following the department procedure for patient identification. Goal is 100% accuracy in patient identification.
3. Utilizes computer systems to accurately receive accession and print patient documentation.
4. Accurately labels cassettes and slides manually and utilizes cassette labeling equipment.
5. Follows established guidelines for specimen pick-up from various locations. Ensures accurate documentation of pick-up times and identifies any problem specimens or orders.
6. Processes tissue cassettes in tissue processor at designated times and following established procedures.
7. Correctly color codes specific tissues types and prioritizes according to established protocols for correct processing and subsequent distribution to pathologist with no more than 4 errors.
8. Performs and documents routine quality control and preventive maintenance with only 3 omission, ensuring that all parameters are within stated control limits or takes action as necessary.
9. Troubleshoots, corrects and documents problems related to specimen testing. Notifies supervisor or designee.
10. Processes specimens for sending to reference laboratories following SOP with no errors regarding packing and shipping of specimens to include specimen identification and acceptability.
11. Utilizes transport system to send and receive specimens in an accurate manner.
12. Cleans and sanitizes the grossing area during operations and after.
13. Bone marrow Collection and processing.
14. Files blocks and slides in histology.
15. Retrieves and re-files current and archived blocks and slides from various locations.
16. Participates in achieving budgetary goals of the laboratory by using supplies, instruments, etc. in cost effective manner. Keeps inventory at par level.
17. Cytology preparation for Pathologist review.
18. Completes and documents 10 hours of continuing education; attends 75% of mandatory staff meetings; completes annual competency testing.
19. Assists pathologist with frozen section specimens.
20. Discards biohazard material in accordance with department safety guidelines.
21. Participates in the department Quality improvement initiatives
22. Adheres to department safety guidelines.
23. Documents all specimen variances. Recognizes when problems exist with specimens and notifies appropriate personnel.
24. Communicates effectively with co-workers, supervisors and physicians.

Other duties assigned.

Minimum Knowledge, Skills, Experience Required:

Education:  High School diploma or GED is the minimum requirement.

Experience: Previous Laboratory work experience strongly preferred.

Additional Skills/Abilities

Must have excellent communication skills with the ability to work in a fast paced environment, requiring prioritizing and changing tasks frequently and quickly. Must be able to maintain absolute confidentiality in the handling of patient information. Absolute integrity and accuracy in the identification and reporting of numbers and names.