Medical Laboratory Scientist III - PRN Blood Bank Job Listing at MedStar Health in Washington, DC (Job ID 161254)

Description

About the Job

This role is PRN, working hours may vary based on departmental need.  

General Summary of Position

Performs routine and specialized assays and provides technical advice and information in the blood bank department of the clinical laboratory to support the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Analyzes body fluids, cells, and blood products to identify abnormal and critical disorders associated with disease processes. Serves as a knowledge expert and technical consultant in assigned specialty area(s).

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluates specimen adequacy for test performance; obtains specimens for quantitative and qualitative analyses.
• Performs routine and specialized testing in the assigned area. Correlates laboratory findings with disease stage; integrates and relates data from other laboratory specialty areas. Confirms abnormal results and specimen discrepancies and initiates appropriate follow-up procedures.
• Reviews and verifies test results; recognizes and follows through on abnormal or unusual findings and communicates them to appropriate personnel. Accurately completes all required documentation. Utilizes judgment and discretion when considering sample integrity, process calibration, reagent concentration and stability, and quality control prior to releasing test results. Evaluates unexpected patient results and identifies potential errors.
• Performs and documents daily quality control and quality assurance measures to ensure tolerance limits are not exceeded. Advises supervisor of quality assurance/quality control issues. Evaluates CAP and other proficiency testing materials as required.
• Analyzes technical problems related to specimen collection and instrumentation. Determines root causes and resolves issues in accordance with established guidelines and procedures.
• Maintains adequate reagents and supplies in the work area and on instruments to avoid delays in sample processing. Keeps the work area clean and organized in accordance with Lean standards. Decontaminates countertops, instruments, computers, telephones, and general work areas according to laboratory protocol.
• Ensures turnaround time standards are met within the lab section; communicates any variances to the supervisor in a timely manner.
• Participates in the education and training of students and new employees.
• Maintains individual competency as scheduled.
• Assists with departmental competency requirements, including training assessments or direct observations, as delegated by the medical director.
• Provides technical advice and support to other laboratory personnel as needed.
• Communicates pertinent information to the next shift to maintain efficient operations.
• Demonstrates basic and advanced troubleshooting skills.
• Serves as a resource to leadership by contributing to activities such as section safety representation, instrument or assay performance monitoring, inventory management, and standard operating procedure (SOP) review and updates.
• Actively participates in cross-training activities and becomes cross-trained according to departmental needs.

Minimum Qualifications

Education
Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Physical, Biological, or Clinical Laboratory Science, or a related field, required.

Experience
3–4 years of clinical laboratory training and/or experience required.

Licenses and Certifications
Certified Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) by American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) required.
Certification may be waived for applicants with a minimum of 7 years of experience in a designated specialty.