Specimen Control and Receiving Tech

POSITION SUMMARY:

The UW Health Specimen Control & Receiving Technician is responsible for receiving specimens and research kits into the laboratory, checking specimens and requisitions for correct labeling and appropriateness, entering tests into the Laboratory Information System, processing specimens, directing them to the appropriate workstation, technologist, or storage area. In addition, the Technician is also responsible for daily checklist duties and clerical duties (filing, mailing, faxing). 

Problems encountered are of a moderate degree of complexity but may require innovation because reference sources and subject matter experts are not always readily available.

Depending on the laboratory, the incumbent may interact daily with pathologists, residents, physicians, technologists, clinical staff, nursing unit personnel, couriers, outside clients and patients.  Decisions are made in consultation with technical staff or the Laboratory Manager.  This position operates under general supervision and requires a high degree of organizational skill and ability to multi-task

EDUCATION/TRAINING:

Minimum:

High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred:

Some post-secondary education in a healthcare or a related science field that may include course work in Medical Laboratory Technician, Cytotechnologist, Histotechnician or Medical Laboratory Scientist degree/certification.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

Minimum:

N/A

Preferred:

PBT(ASCP) Certification. 

EXPERIENCE:

Minimum:

Six months healthcare or laboratory related work experience.

Preferred:

One-year healthcare or lab related work experience

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• High level communication skills and the ability to maintain good interpersonal relationships with co-workers and clients.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work.
• Competence in problem identification and resolution.
• Ability to work independently.
• Knowledge of laboratory medicine and universal precautions preferred.
• Knowledge of medical terminology preferred.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITES:

1. Specimen Receipt and Processing
   1. Receive specimens and carefully check paperwork for accuracy and completeness, including documentation of medical necessity. Contact ordering source if any information is incomplete.
   2. Monitor specimen identification using the laboratory’s specimen identification policies.  Resolve problems and complete documentation as required.
   3. Process test requests with accompanying specimens and enter orders as required. Use established policies and procedures for specimen acceptability and troubleshoot or clarify questions regarding specimen integrity.
   4. Process specimen using established policies and procedures.
   5. Prepare and return blood components and tissues following patient and product identification procedures.
   6. Troubleshoot laboratory’s defined equipment and document system error codes.
   7. Respond to telephone and computer requests regarding add on tests, patient results, availability of products, and department procedures. Refer calls to medical technologists/medical laboratory technicians when appropriate.
   8. Practice universal safety precautions according to Infection Control policy and procedures at all times (e.g. use of gloves, lab coat, and other Personal Protective Equipment).
   9. Monitor internal and external lab test work queues and results, as applicable.   

1. Instrument Maintenance and Clerical Duties
   1. Retrieve lab computer reports as necessary.
   2. Operate pneumatic tube system as needed.
   3. Complete daily checklists, restock, and order supplies as necessary.
   4. Perform routine equipment maintenance, including decontamination and cleaning, as required.
   5. Answer laboratory door, provide direction to the visitor.

1. Training
   1. Train other laboratory staff, students, and other healthcare professionals within the scope of their responsibilities.
   2. Communicate training needs and materials to manager.

1. Performs additional duties as assigned.

ALL DUTIES AND REQUIREMENTS MUST BE PERFORMED CONSISTENT WITH THE UW HEALTH PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.