BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Albuquerque Indian Health Center (AIHC) clinical laboratory provides clinical laboratory services to patients for direct patient care. RFC is to continue the level of care supporting the mission of AIHC. The Medical Lab Technologist will assist current Medical/Clinical Laboratory Scientist (MLS/CLS), aiding in the Pre-Analytical, Analytical, and Post-Analytical application of established laboratory procedures in accordance with regulatory guidelines for examinations of blood and other body fluids in the clinical laboratory. Work assignments may include such specialized areas as chemistry, hematology, serology, urinalysis, phlebotomy, and specimen processing and are directly supervised by a Supervisory Medical Technologist.
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES / TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS
Specimen Collection and Processing — Pre-Analytical
The Medical Lab Technologist obtains biological specimens for laboratory internal and/or external testing as assigned by the Supervisor. The Medical Lab Technologist uses appropriate functions of the laboratory package, including ordering patient tests and accessioning tests ordered by the provider. The Medical Lab Technologist ensures patient identification and maintains patient confidentiality to meet patient safety goals.
The Medical Lab Technologist withdraws appropriate quantities of blood by venipuncture or capillary technique for the tests requested and the age and/or condition of the patient. The Medical Lab Technologist ensures proper labeling and integrity of samples received in the laboratory and follows established laboratory protocol for specimen preparation for analysis in various sections of the laboratory and reference laboratory.
Testing — Analytical
The Medical Lab Technologist conducts varied and complex tests and examinations, including Chemistry, Hematology, Urinalysis, and Serology, as requested by the medical staff for use in clinical diagnosis, patient screening, and monitoring patient therapy. The accomplishment of such tests and examinations includes, but is not limited to:
-Evaluation of specimen integrity and specimen evaluation for analysis.
-Analysis of quality control samples, recording results, and determining reportability of results.
-Performing quality control, calibration, and preventive maintenance on all equipment and testing platforms.
-Monitoring, recording/documenting, and taking corrective actions when thresholds are exceeded.
-Following required quality assurance practices in accordance with predefined procedures, with proper records maintained.
-Performing varied and complex clinical laboratory tests as assigned by the Supervisor.
-Following accreditation standards, regulatory agency requirements, and institutional policies regarding bloodborne pathogens, internal/external disaster policy, infection control, chemical hygiene, fire and electrical safety.
-Practicing Universal Precautions, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, washing hands, and changing gloves between venipunctures.
-Operating and utilizing appropriate equipment, instruments, and other devices/materials to perform qualitative and quantitative analysis of specimens.
-Assuring that critical characteristics such as temperature and humidity are observed, monitored, recorded, and corrected when thresholds are exceeded.
-Actively participating in quality improvement activities.
Reporting — Post-Analytical
The Medical Lab Technologist interprets and evaluates results of tests and examinations in process and upon completion in order to recognize anticipated reactions and departures from the norm. The Medical Lab Technologist reports recurring abnormalities and deviations to the Supervisor or other MLS/CLS.
The Medical Lab Technologist maintains professional knowledge and proficiency in medical technology through continuing education, staff meetings, and participation in professionally oriented activities. The Medical Lab Technologist utilizes the laboratory computer system to review reports and retrieve laboratory results for patient care, participates in the Proficiency Testing program, and performs other duties as assigned.
SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
Hours of work are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding official government holidays and weekends.
The number of hours worked for MLS/CLS services shall not exceed 40 hours per week.
The Medical Lab Technologist shall report to work from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM with 30 minutes for lunch. Two 15-minute breaks are allowed: one in the morning and one in the afternoon, if permitted.