Medical Technologist - Microbiology jobs in Louisiana

JOB PURPOSE OR MISSION:  Performs routine and special clinical laboratory tests on patient specimens, correlates and interprets data based on knowledge of techniques, principles and instruments.  Investigates problems, performs corrective and preventative maintenance of equipment, prepares reagents, instructs students and new employees, and performs data entry and interpretation of test results.  Responsibilities include independently applying clinical laboratory techniques in the performance of test procedures.  Performs duties for the age population served, as defined in the department’s scope of service.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS include, but are not limited to:

Performs various laboratory diagnostic tests on patient specimens.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:

Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the principles and theories of technical procedures. Prepares specimens for testing using solutions, reagents and stains as required. Processes specimens according to department protocol and perform test procedures indicated on the request form according to established procedures. Recognizes abnormal or unexpected results and the variables that can affect test procedures and then follows up appropriately. Completes testing as ordered within appropriate time frames. Meets expected test turnaround time consistently. Records and reports all results within established guidelines. Assists with morgue duties as necessary once deemed competent.

2.         Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the operation and principles of departmental instrumentation.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:

           ·  Accurately performs quality control and/or calibration on all testing procedures and notifies

              supervisor when quality control issues occur.

           ·  Follows quality control guidelines as documented in procedure manuals.

           ·  Records instrument maintenance and quality control performance results accurately.

           ·  Notifies a supervisor of out-of-control, discrepant, or unexpected results.

           ·  Properly documents corrective action or justification.

 Accurately interprets and reports laboratory test results.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:

Utilizes delta check feature in result interpretation as required. Interprets and correlates test result(s) ensuring validity prior to reporting. Reports STAT results within 30 minutes of specimen receipt as indicated by testing equipment

   and test type.

Reports critical values according to established protocol.  Ensures and documents “read back”

   protocol.

Accurately transcribes (manual and keystroke entry) test results.

Communicates effectively with physicians, nursing staff, co-workers and other

organizational staff.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:

Achieves clarity and understanding in communication with physicians and organizational staff. Addresses operational issues in a professional manner maintaining composure and focus on

   the issue at hand.

Discourages gossip actively; promotes cooperation and teamwork within the department

   among co-workers, across sections, shifts and campuses.

Exercises judgment effectively.  Recognizes issues which require follow-up and notifies

   appropriate supervisory personnel.

5.    Observes and follows established departmental environment of care and safety

protocols and practices.

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:

Follows established personal protection equipment (PPE) policy wearing appropriate lab coats,

   gloves and shoes during performance of laboratory testing and related tasks.

Minimizes risk to personal injury through employing appropriate techniques in specimen

   handling, handling of sharps and ergonomics.

Maintains an orderly and clean work environment. Alert to potential safety hazards, reports incidents and accidents appropriately.

6.    Attends departmental, organizational and continuing education meetings

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS:

Attends a minimum of 9 departmental meetings annually. Attends mandatory organizational meetings as required.

            ·  Maintains minimum of 12 CEUs annually.

7.   Performs other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Must be able to exercise considerable judgment in the application, evaluation and implementation of new or revised procedures, techniques or practices to work problems.

SPECIAL SKILL, LICENSE AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS:

Current Clinical Laboratory Scientist – General license issued by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners.

HIPAA REQUIREMENTS:

Maintains knowledge of and adherence to all applicable HIPAA regulations appropriate to Job Position including but not limited to:  Paper medical records with limit to job functions, electronic GHIN without limit, patient demographics, lab results, patient information related to surgery or appointment schedules, patient related complaints, and information related to patient location.

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:

Maintains knowledge of and adherence to all applicable safety practices appropriate to Job Position including but not limited to:  Incident reporting, handling of wastes, sharps and linen, PPE, exposure control plans, hand washing, environment of care, patient identification, receives orders for patients, and collects blood samples.

PRN