Purpose:
Assure compliance with the UPMC mission and values for providing service excellence. Provide authority, responsibility, and accountability for the accurate performance of laboratory testing of a routine and advanced nature. These tests are used in the diagnosis and treatment of patients and in the evaluation of a patient's response to treatment. Apply competent clinical knowledge to achieve accurate clinical testing which leads to quality patient care outcomes.
Responsibilities:

• Interacts with all laboratory customers professionally. Responds to telephone inquiries courteously and in a timely manner. Practices pleasant communications both internally and externally.
• Adheres to all established laboratory and hospital policies, procedures, methods, quality assurance, proficiency testing, and personnel policies. Follow established procedures for the collection (including phlebotomy, as required) and processing of specimens for analysis including the appropriateness and stability of the sample. Perform qualitative and quantitative analytical procedures according to established protocols with precision and accuracy in a timely and efficient manner.
• Recognize critical, abnormal and unacceptable test results and follow-up according to established protocols. Recognize factors that affect measurements and results and initiate the necessary corrective action according to established protocols. Identify problems with instrumentation, methodology, specimens, supplies, or results and take action as outlined in predetermined protocols.
• Process specimens for analysis. Enters accurate patient demographic information and laboratory test orders into the laboratory information system, while ascertaining adequacy of patient information and sample integrity.
• Independently performs Moderately Complex, or Waived tests (qualitative and quantitative). Performs High Complexity testing only with the oversight of a Medical Technologist, or with result review by a Supervisor or Manager.
• Meets established testing protocols for precision and accuracy in a timely and efficient manner. Recognizes critical, abnormal, and unacceptable test results and follows-up according to established protocols.
• Performs and documents Quality Control according to established protocols. Informs supervisory personnel and/or pathologists of any unusual or problematic incidents.
• Maintains instruments following procedural calibrations, quality control, and daily maintenance and troubleshooting when necessary.
• Operate and maintain equipment within the scope of training utilizing defined schedules and written instructions to perform quality control checks, preventive maintenance, and calibration. Perform minor repairs. Use reagents and supplies cost-effectively; monitor and maintain an appropriate supply inventory.
• Demonstrates dependability, reliability, and independent judgment. Recognizes priorities to accommodate department needs and acceptance of appropriate authority.
• Follows all biohazard, chemical, and sharps safety guidelines. Maintains a safe work environment.
• Honors confidentiality of patient information. Follows all compliance guidelines.
• Assists with the training and orienting of new employees, students, and residents, using established competency and workstation operational guidelines.
• Acts as a consultative resource for troubleshooting technical issues.
• Assume additional responsibilities as requested by the Laboratory Supervisor, Manager, or Director.
• Completes assigned projects in a timely manner.