Medical Laboratory Scientist

The Medical Laboratory Scientist is a professional member of the Laboratory staff who performs laboratory specimen collection; complex, non-routine procedures; quality control; instrument maintenance; and who accurately documents as specified, all work performed under the direction of Laboratory Leadership. The scientist can recognize and resolve methodology problems using judgment and sensitivity to contributing factors, and is capable of directing the work of other staff.

Entry Level

Current registration as a Medical Technologist or Medical Laboratory Scientist, issued by the ASCP or equivalent, or categorical certification by the ASCP or equivalent for a specific departmental category (i.e. Chemistry, Microbiology, etc.), or the ability to obtain certification within six months (preferred).

Collection of venous/capillary blood specimens following existing procedures.

Instruction of patients in the collection of non-blood specimens.

Performance of tests in the Blood Bank, Chemistry, Urinalysis, Hematology, Hemostasis, Immunology and Microbiology sections of the Clinical Laboratories. Testing is to include proficiency testing samples. All activities to be completed in a timely manner as defined in the Laboratory policies and procedures and quality dashboards.

Proficiency with all procedures on the test list within the established timeframe.

Performance and maintenance of all requisite competencies as required by all applicable regulatory agencies and accrediting agency standards.

Analysis of quality control materials for each procedure with values being recorded appropriately and corrective actions documented when needed. Results failing Laboratory Quality rules must have corrective actions documented and controls must be acceptable before patient testing may resume.

Any change of lots or reagents must be documented in the department approved manner for troubleshooting and quality purposes.

Maintenance of the instrumentation in the assigned work area according to maintenance schedules and procedures, with actions being documented in the appropriate manner.

Maintenance of the assigned work area, to include disinfection of the work surface at the end of each shift.

Transcription of results on worksheets and result entry into the Laboratory information system according to Laboratory procedures.

Receives and records verbal orders from licensed independent practitioners for orders that are specific to the services provided by their department.

Immediate reporting of critical values as defined by Laboratory standard operating procedures.

Participates in student and new employee training as directed and needed.